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Enlightenment Ideals

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AP US History

Definition

Enlightenment Ideals refer to the philosophical principles that emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. These ideas encouraged people to think critically about government, society, and human rights, laying the groundwork for democratic governance and social progress. The impact of Enlightenment Ideals can be seen in the development of an American culture that values liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau profoundly influenced American political thought, especially regarding governance and human rights.
  2. The ideals of liberty and equality advocated during the Enlightenment were pivotal in shaping revolutionary movements, including the American Revolution.
  3. These ideals also emphasized the importance of education and knowledge as tools for societal improvement and individual empowerment.
  4. The Enlightenment promoted secularism, challenging the established religious doctrines that had previously held significant power over society.
  5. Ideas from the Enlightenment helped establish foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which reflect the values of democracy and individual rights.

Review Questions

  • How did Enlightenment Ideals influence American political thought during its formative years?
    • Enlightenment Ideals significantly shaped American political thought by promoting concepts like natural rights and government by consent. Thinkers such as John Locke argued for individual freedoms and the idea that people have inherent rights that must be protected by government. This laid a philosophical foundation for key documents such as the Declaration of Independence, which asserted that government derives its power from the consent of the governed.
  • Evaluate the role of Enlightenment Ideals in fostering a sense of national identity among early Americans.
    • Enlightenment Ideals played a crucial role in fostering a sense of national identity by promoting shared values of liberty, equality, and justice. These ideas resonated with diverse groups within the colonies, creating a unifying belief in a common purpose: to create a society based on reason and individual rights. This shared commitment to Enlightenment principles helped galvanize support for independence and set a cultural tone that emphasized democratic governance.
  • Analyze how Enlightenment Ideals continue to influence contemporary American society and its values.
    • Enlightenment Ideals continue to profoundly influence contemporary American society by shaping foundational beliefs about democracy, individual rights, and social justice. The emphasis on reason as a guiding principle has led to advancements in education, civil rights movements, and ongoing debates about governmental authority versus personal freedom. By maintaining a commitment to these ideals, modern America grapples with issues such as inequality and civic engagement, reflecting an enduring legacy of Enlightenment thought in shaping its evolving culture.
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