Thomas Jefferson was significantly influenced by the writings of several Enlightenment thinkers when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. Key influences included:
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John Locke: Locke's ideas about natural rights, social contracts, and government by consent were foundational to Jefferson's thinking. Locke's assertion that individuals have rights to life, liberty, and property can be seen in the Declaration’s focus on unalienable rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
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Baron de Montesquieu: Montesquieu's thoughts on the separation of powers in government influenced Jefferson's views on governance and the structure of political institutions.
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Jean-Jacques Rousseau: Rousseau's ideas about the general will and the importance of democracy and civic participation were also impactful.
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Thomas Paine: His pamphlet "Common Sense" was instrumental in framing the argument for independence and resonated with many of Jefferson's views.
These writers contributed to the philosophical underpinnings of the Declaration, which emphasized individual rights, government accountability, and the moral justification for independence from British rule.