Rights of Man was published in two parts, the first in 1791, the second a year later, in 1792. Paine spends his time writing about the definition of a constitution, supporting one over hereditary succession as a method of government. Furthermore, he states that constitutions should empower citizens with natural rights. Edmond Burke, and his publication Reflections on the Revolution in France, are the focus of Paine’s letter. Using simple style, Paine calls out Burke’s views on aristocracy directly. The text was surrounded by some controversy, and was known and read by literary and political elites in Paine’s day.