Lesson 2: The Age of Enlightenment and Revolutions (1700-1815)
Overview:
During the period of 1700-1815, Europe witnessed significant intellectual, political, and social changes that transformed the continent. The Age of Enlightenment, a philosophical movement that advocated reason, logic, and progress, emerged during this time. Additionally, various revolutions and conflicts, such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution, reshaped European society and political systems.
Key Concepts:
1. The Enlightenment:
- The Enlightenment, also known as the Age of Reason, was a period of intellectual and philosophical growth in Europe.
- Enlightenment thinkers emphasized reason, individualism, and natural rights.
- Influential philosophers of the Enlightenment included John Locke, Voltaire, Montesquieu, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
2. Enlightenment Ideas and Impact:
- Enlightenment ideas influenced social, political, and economic spheres of European society.
- Philosophers advocated for the separation of powers, religious tolerance, freedom of speech, and the abolishment of absolute monarchies.
- These ideas contributed to the spread of democracy and the rise of nationalism.
3. American Revolution (1775-1783):
- The American Revolution was a war fought between the American colonies and Great Britain.
- The American colonies sought independence and self-governance, inspired by Enlightenment ideas of liberty and self-determination.
- The American victory resulted in the formation of the United States as an independent nation and ignited a desire for freedom among other European colonies.
4. French Revolution (1789-1799):
- The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France.
- Inspired by Enlightenment ideas, revolutionaries sought to dismantle the monarchy and aristocracy and establish a republic.
- The revolution led to significant social changes, including the execution of King Louis XVI and the Reign of Terror.
5. Napoleonic Era (1799-1815):
- Following the French Revolution, Napoleon Bonaparte seized power and became the First Consul and later Emperor of the French.
- Napoleon conducted military campaigns to expand French territory and introduced various reforms, such as the Napoleonic Code.
- The Napoleonic Wars, fought against other European powers, resulted in the temporary expansion and subsequent decline of French power.
Key Personalities:
1. John Locke (1632-1704): English philosopher whose ideas on natural rights and government influenced the Enlightenment and the development of modern democracy.
2. Voltaire (1694-1778): French philosopher and writer known for his advocacy of civil liberties, including freedom of speech and religion.
3. Montesquieu (1689-1755): French lawyer and philosopher who proposed the idea of separation of powers, influencing democratic systems worldwide.
4. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778): Swiss philosopher whose ideas on social contract and popular sovereignty contributed to the development of democratic thought.
5. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821): French military and political leader who rose to power during the French Revolution and established the Napoleonic Empire.
Key Terms:
1. Enlightenment: Intellectual and philosophical movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and progress.
2. Natural rights: Fundamental rights that all individuals possess by virtue of being human, including life, liberty, and property.
3. Separation of powers: The division of governmental power into distinct branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judiciary.
4. Republic: A form of government in which power is exercised by elected representatives and an elected or nominated president.
5. Napoleonic Code: A comprehensive and systematic civil code introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte, influencing legal systems in many European countries.
6. Reign of Terror: A period during the French Revolution characterized by mass executions and political repression, aimed at eliminating perceived enemies of the revolution.
Europe 1650-1815 lesson 2
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