Enlightenment
a philosophical movement which dominated the world of ideas in Europe in the 18th century. The Enlightenment included a range of ideas centered on reason as the primary source of authority andlegitimacy, and came to advance ideals such as liberty, progress, tolerance, fraternity, constitutional governmentand ending the perceived abuses of the church and state
The Enlightenment, also known as the Age of Reason, was a period in European history that spanned from the late 17th to the 18th century. It was marked by a shift in philosophy, culture, and politics, which emphasized reason, individualism, and natural rights. The enlightenment was characterized by a focus on science and empiricism, which attempted to separate knowledge from dogma and superstition.
Some of the key thinkers of the Enlightenment include John Locke, Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant. These philosophers rejected traditional authority and instead sought to instill reason as the sole guide for human conduct. They challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and the absolute power of monarchy, advocating for a more democratic society.
The Enlightenment had a profound influence on the Western world, as its ideals spread beyond Europe and into the Americas. It paved the way for the American Revolution and the French Revolution, as well as the rise of liberal democracy and capitalism. It was a time of great intellectual and social change, shaping the way we think and act today.
More Answers:
The Role and Significance of Colonial Militias in the American ColoniesUnderstanding the Patriot Movement: A Look at the Conservative, Libertarian, and Anti-Government Beliefs that Drive the Movement.
The Life and Accomplishments of Benjamin Franklin: An Inventor, Writer, Diplomat, and Statesman.