Enlightenment & Revolutions Flashcards

Front

Revolution

Back

A fundamental change in political power or organizational structures that occurs in a relatively short period. Revolutions often lead to significant social and political changes, as seen in the American, French, and Latin American revolutions.

Front

Divine Right

Back

The doctrine that kings derive their authority from God. Justified absolute monarchies, leading to conflicts with Enlightenment ideals that emphasized consent of the governed.

Front

Absolute Monarch

Back

A ruler with complete authority over the government and lives of the people. This system was challenged during the Enlightenment, leading to demands for democratic governance.

Front

Scientific Revolution

Back

A period of great advances in scientific thought during the 16th and 17th centuries. Laid the groundwork for Enlightenment thinkers by promoting reason and observation, challenging traditional beliefs.

Front

Enlightenment

Back

An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority. Influenced revolutionary ideas about government, rights, and social contracts, leading to revolutions in the Americas and Europe.

Front

Democracy

Back

A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives. Rooted in Enlightenment thought, it became a model for governments after revolutions.

Front

Republic

Back

A form of government in which the country is considered a 'public matter' and is not the private concern of rulers. Emphasizes the role of citizens in governance, a key outcome of the revolutions influenced by Enlightenment ideas.

Front

Locke

Back

John Locke, an Enlightenment philosopher known for his ideas on natural rights and government by consent. His theories influenced revolutionary leaders, emphasizing life, liberty, and property as fundamental rights.

Front

Natural Rights

Back

Rights that individuals are born with, including life, liberty, and property. Central to Enlightenment philosophy and a justification for revolutions against oppressive governments.

Front

Rousseau

Back

Jean-Jacques Rousseau, an Enlightenment thinker who wrote about the social contract and general will. His ideas influenced democratic thought and inspired revolutionary movements, particularly in France.