Enlightenment (2) (jan 1, 1685 – jan 1, 1815)

Description:

The time period focused on reason and knowledge and promised new ideas about government (natural rights, consent of the governed, separation of powers). These ideas influenced the American Revolution.

Key Enlightenment Thinkers:
John Locke: wrote "two treatises of Gov't" and he believed in Natural Rights -Life, Liberty, Property, and consent of governed (These ideas are influential for the DOI)

Baron de Montesquieu: wrote "The spirit of Laws" and he advocated for checks and balances+ separation of powers (influential in gov't).

Thomas Paine: wrote "common sense" and he advocated for the U.S to declare Independence from England. Influenced the DOI.

All these ideas influenced the DOI and future American gov't: 3 branches of gov't, freedom of speech, and ideas to challenge authority.

Ultimatey, the Enlightenment inspires the American Revolution.

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