Discovering History
History with Ms. Sabatos
Enlightenment
Enlightenment Thinkers (Philosophes)
Thought humans were naturally at war with each other. In order to escape this, a social contract was needed.
Wrote the Encycolpedia, which included articles on philosophy. His goal was to change the way of thinking.
After studying Medieval Europe and China, he believed the best way to protect freedom was a 3 branch government system.
Believed people in their natural state were good and tht evils of society corrupted people.
Advocated for religious toleration and an end to the slave trade. Trusted advisor to some Enlightened despots.
While she thought being a good mother was important, she also pushed for equal education for boys and girls
As the father of modern economics, he advocated for laissez-faire government, allowing the market to control itself through an invisible hand.
Enlightened Despots (Rulers)
Map of Europe during Enlightenment
Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia in the 18th century, ruled her country as an Enlightened despot ( a ruler who includes Enlightenment ideas in their ruling while maintaining parts of absolute rule)...or did she? While she implemented ideas from philosophers such as Voltaire, she continuously built lavish building like her palace in St. Petersburg (pictured to the right).
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Want the watch the video we watched in class? Go here and start the video around 30:00!
The King of Prussia, a large German state, was considered an Enlightened ruler for his policies on religion and reduction of torture throughout his kingdom. Frederick conversed with various philosophers at the time. However, like Catherine, he indulged in large construction at the expense of his citizens. His palace is located in Potsdam anhd pictured to the right.
Joseph II of Austria is another Enlightened ruler of the time. Like the others, he used the Enlightenment Thinkers' ideas ion his kingdom while also enjoying some benefits of an Absolute Monarch.
Enlightenment Influcneing America
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence was a list of grievances from the American colonist to King George III. The ideas used for the Declaration are taken from various Enightenment thinkers, especially John Locke. To the right, are the documents we worked on in class, citing examples of Enlightenment ideas in the Declaration.
Want to know more about the American Revolution? Visit the American Revolution page on this website!