The era in question represents an 18th-century intellectual and philosophical movement that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism. It challenged traditional authority and promoted the idea of progress through science and rational thought. Key tenets included the belief in natural rights, the separation of powers, and the importance of individual liberty. For instance, thinkers like John Locke articulated theories of government based on consent of the governed, impacting political revolutions globally.
The significance of this movement lies in its profound influence on political and social reforms worldwide. It served as a catalyst for revolutions in America and France, inspiring documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Furthermore, it fostered the abolitionist movement, promoted educational reform, and spurred advancements in scientific understanding. Its legacy endures in modern democratic principles and human rights declarations.
