How did the ideas of the Enlightenment thinkers later influence the governments of the United States and France?

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The ideas of Enlightenment thinkers greatly influenced the governments of both the United States and France. To understand how this happened, let's break down the process into a few steps:

1. Understand the Enlightenment: The Enlightenment was a philosophical movement that took place in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, logic, and individual rights, and sought to challenge traditional authority and promote scientific progress.

2. Identify key Enlightenment thinkers: There were several prominent Enlightenment thinkers whose ideas had a profound impact on politics and government. Some notable figures include John Locke, Montesquieu, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Voltaire.

3. Enlightenment ideas in the United States: In the case of the United States, the Enlightenment principles heavily influenced the American Revolution and the subsequent formation of the country. The Founding Fathers, such as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Benjamin Franklin, were directly influenced by Enlightenment ideas.

a. Individual Rights: The concept of natural rights, championed by John Locke, served as the foundation for the Declaration of Independence. The idea that all individuals are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness became a crucial aspect of American political thought.

b. Limited Government: Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers and checks and balances in government. These notions greatly influenced the structure of the United States Constitution, with its three branches of government.

4. Enlightenment ideas in France: In France, the Enlightenment ideals played a significant role in shaping the French Revolution and the subsequent political landscape.

a. Equality and Popular Sovereignty: The writings of Rousseau emphasized the concept of popular sovereignty and the idea that power should reside with the people. This notion inspired the French revolutionaries, who sought to overthrow the monarchy and establish a republic based on principles of equality.

b. Separation of Powers: Montesquieu's ideas continued to resonate in France as well. They influenced the development of the French constitution, particularly the inclusion of a separation of powers within the government.

c. Freedom of Speech and Expression: Voltaire's advocacy for freedom of speech and expression became a rallying cry during the French Revolution. These ideas were later enshrined in the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.

In summary, the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers influenced the governments of the United States and France in numerous ways. They shaped the beliefs and values of key founding figures, inspired revolutionary movements, and influenced the formation of new political systems that emphasized individual rights, limited government, and popular sovereignty.