MWH Big ideas 2

Q: How did the Renaissance and Reformation lead to the Enlightenment?

The Renaissance encouraged people to explore science, art, and human potential. The Reformation taught people to question powerful authorities like the Church. These changes made people start thinking for themselves and using reason, which led to the Enlightenment.

Q: How did Enlightenment ideas help start the French Revolution?

Enlightenment thinkers believed people had natural rights like freedom and equality. They said governments should protect these rights and listen to the people. These ideas gave the French people reasons to demand change and fight unfair treatment.

Q: What problems did France have before the French Revolution?

The country was in debt and the government spent too much money. Poor people paid all the taxes while the rich paid none. The king had too much power and didn’t help fix the problems.

Q: Was the French Revolution a success or a failure?

It ended the monarchy and gave people more rights. But it also caused a lot of violence, like the Reign of Terror. It didn’t bring full equality, but it inspired other countries to make changes.

Q: How did the French Revolution affect later European history?

It spread ideas like liberty and equality to other countries. It made people in other nations want their own revolutions. Monarchs across Europe became worried about losing power.

Q: How did the Enlightenment change ideas about government and people?

People began to believe that governments should protect their rights. They thought rulers should follow laws and be fair. People saw themselves as important and believed they deserved freedom and a voice.

Q: What caused World War I?

Countries built up large armies and made secret alliances. They competed for colonies and felt strong national pride. When Archduke Franz Ferdinand was killed, it triggered all these tensions into war.

Q: Was the Treaty of Versailles fair?

Some say it was fair because Germany caused major damage in the war. Others say it was too harsh and blamed Germany for everything. The treaty made Germany angry and helped cause World War II.