"Small islands not capable of protecting themselves are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care; but there is something very absurd in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island."

What island is Thomas Paine referring to at the end of the quotation?

("Common sense" by Thomas Paine)

Question

"Small islands not capable of protecting themselves are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care; but there is something very absurd in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island."

What island is Thomas Paine referring to at the end of the quotation? 

("Common sense" by Thomas Paine)

anonymous · Answer

It's Great Britain. During that time the Thirteen Colonies were under the control of Great Britain, and this pamphlet that he wrote inspired them to fight for independence. Also, compare the size of the Thirteen Colonies to Great Britain, the former's definitely bigger.