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Enlightenment
An intellectual movement in Europe emphasizing reason, individualism, and questioning traditional authority, particularly in religion and government.
Natural Rights
The idea that all humans are born with rights to life, liberty, and property.
Consent of the Governed
The principle that the authority of a government depends on the consent of the people.
Separation of Powers
The doctrine asserting that state power should be divided into three branches to prevent tyranny.
Montesquieu
A French philosopher who advocated for the separation of powers within government.
Legislative Branch
The branch of government responsible for making laws.
Executive Branch
The branch of government responsible for enforcing laws.
Judicial Branch
The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws.
Philosophes
Enlightenment thinkers who questioned traditional roles, particularly the role of religion in government.
Voltaire
A prominent Enlightenment philosopher known for his criticism of state religion and advocacy for religious freedom.
Social Contract
A theory suggesting that people give up certain freedoms to a government in exchange for protection of their rights.
General Will
The collective will of the people that Rousseau believed should serve as the authority of the state.
Checks and Balances
A system designed to prevent any one branch of government from gaining too much power.
American Revolution
The colonial revolt against British authority, resulting in the establishment of a republic.
French Revolution
The uprising in France that resulted in the overthrow of the monarchy, giving power to the people.
Latin-American Revolutions
Conflicts in Latin America where creole leaders overthrew colonial governments and established new identities.
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