Read this quotation. But the most powerful of all arguments is that nothing but independence . . . can keep the peace of the continent and preserve it . . . from civil wars. —Thomas Paine, Common Sense, 1776 In this quotation, Paine suggests that independence will prevent Britain from getting into more wars. will help Britain rule the European continent. cannot win a civil war with the colonies. is the only way to keep peace in the colonies.