Enlightenment

Definition

An intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe that emphasized reason, individual rights, scientific inquiry, and skepticism of traditional authority. Enlightenment ideas about natural rights, social contracts, and limited government directly inspired democratic revolutions around the world.

Examples

  • The concept of natural rights (life, liberty, property) influencing the Declaration of Independence
  • The idea of separation of powers shaping the U.S. Constitution
  • Salons and coffeehouses serving as centers for intellectual debate in Paris and London
Key Fact

The Enlightenment is often dated from the publication of Newton's Principia (1687) to the French Revolution (1789).

Related Terms

Enlightenment thinkers American revolution French revolution Democratic ideals

Study This Concept

Practice Enlightenment with free review games in these units:

AP World History: Modern Unit 5: Revolutions