The Declaration of Independence is a historic document that embodies Enlightenment ideals, advocating for equality, natural rights, and a government by consent. It reflects the influence of philosophers like John Locke and Montesquieu, emphasizing a social contract and balanced governance. These principles have shaped the political landscape of the United States and continue to influence its democratic framework.
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The Declaration of Independence reflects Enlightenment ideals by proclaiming the equality of all men
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
The concept of natural rights, including the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, was a central theme in the Enlightenment and is reflected in the Declaration of Independence
The Enlightenment emphasized the idea of a social contract between the government and the governed, which is evident in the Declaration's assertion that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed
Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, was heavily influenced by Enlightenment philosophy, particularly the ideas of John Locke and Montesquieu
Tasked by the Second Continental Congress
Amid rising colonial unrest, Thomas Jefferson was tasked by the Second Continental Congress with drafting the Declaration of Independence
Infused with Enlightenment Ideas
Jefferson's work on the Declaration was infused with Enlightenment ideas, such as the social contract and natural rights
The Enlightenment ideals incorporated into the Declaration of Independence greatly influenced the political framework of the United States, including the concept of checks and balances in government
The Enlightenment challenged the prevailing absolute monarchies of the time, advocating for increased citizen participation in government
The Glorious Revolution in England in 1688 exemplified the shift towards a government that balanced power between the monarch and a strengthened Parliament
John Locke
John Locke's theories on the social contract and natural rights greatly influenced the Declaration of Independence and later thinkers like Rousseau
Charles Montesquieu
Montesquieu's advocacy for the separation of powers and checks and balances greatly shaped the architecture of the United States government
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The ______ of ______ is a pivotal document that announced the American colonies' break from ______ ______.
Declaration
Independence
Great
Britain
01
Principal author of the Declaration of Independence
Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration, reflecting Enlightenment ideas.
02
Role of John Locke's concepts
Jefferson incorporated Locke's social contract and natural rights into the Declaration.
