The Enlightenment, sometimes called the Age of Reason, sought to shine the "light" of reason on traditional ideas about government and society. Enlightenment thinkers promoted goals of material well-being, social justice, and worldly happiness. Their ideas about government and society stood in sharp contrast to the old principles of divine-right rule, a rigid social hierarchy, and the promise of a better life in heaven. Since the 1700s, Enlightenment ideas have spread, creating upheaval as they challenge established traditions around the world.
Enlightenment thinkers tried to apply reason and the laws of nature to human society.
Enlightenment ideas spread across Europe and prompted some rulers to make reforms.
Colonial opposition to British trade and tax policies led to independence and the founding of the United States of America.
Thomas Jefferson and other committee members present the Declaration of Independence to the Continental Congress in the summer of 1776.