10) Thomas Paine
Pros: The revolution’s propagandist was actually born in England but came to the colonies in 1774, just in time for the fireworks. His works Common Sense and The American Crisis formed the basis of justification for the rebellion against England, and his Enlightenment ideals would eventually spread beyond the states to fuel revolutions around the world. Also, he invented the concept of the minimum wage.
Cons: Perhaps went a step too far by viewing religion as another tyranny to be overthrown. He may or may not have been correct but was ostracized for this belief at the end of his life regardless. His funeral had six attendees.
