Thomas Paine's revolutionary ideas were shaped by various influences, including the Enlightenment, his personal experiences in America, and his interactions with influential figures. His writings, such as Common Sense, encapsulated the spirit of liberty and the rejection of tyranny, appealing to the growing sentiment for independence from British rule. Paine's rationalist philosophy was deeply rooted in the belief in human rights and the potential for societal progress. His advocacy for democracy and critical engagement with government established him as a vital voice in the American Revolution, inspiring a generation to fight for freedom and equality.