Page 27 flash cards

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.