Enlightenment
A period of intellectual ferment in the thirteen American colonies which led to the American Revolution
Real World Example
The Enlightenment was important because it encouraged people in the English Colonies to question authority, value reason, and seek individual rights, which were key ideas leading to the American Revolution. Thinkers like John Locke promoted the idea that governments should protect people's natural rights, such as life, liberty, and property. These ideas highlighted tensions with British rule, as colonists demanded more freedom and representation. Today, these Enlightenment principles influence our daily lives through democratic governments, where citizens have a say in decisions and laws that affect them. For example, when people vote in elections or express their opinions freely, they are exercising the Enlightenment ideals of personal rights and government by the people.
