The 18th Century

Enlightenment Ideas

Philosophical ideas that began to influence the political development of European states in the 18th century, emphasizing natural laws and natural rights.

Natural Rights

Rights such as equality before the law, freedom of speech and press, religious worship, assembly, property ownership, and pursuit of happiness, as advocated during the Enlightenment.

Enlightened Despotism

A form of government where rulers follow Enlightenment principles, like religious toleration, freedom of speech, and press, to maintain natural rights while enforcing laws fairly.

United Kingdom of Great Britain

Formed in 1707 by the union of England and Scotland, characterized by a political system sharing power between the king and Parliament.

Frederick the Great

King of Prussia in the 18th century known for promoting an efficient bureaucracy, embracing Enlightenment ideas, and expanding the Prussian army.

Joseph II of Austria

Son of Maria Theresa, an Austrian ruler who abolished serfdom, promoted equality before the law, and implemented various reforms during his reign.

Catherine the Great

Empress of Russia who supported Enlightenment ideas, issued the Charter of the Nobility, and faced a peasant revolt due to favoring the nobility.

War of Austrian Succession

Conflict in the 18th century triggered by disputes over the succession of Maria Theresa, involving major European powers and leading to the loss of Silesia to Prussia.

Seven Years War

Global conflict involving major European powers fought in Europe, India, and North America, leading to the Peace of Hubertusburg and the return of occupied territories.

Treaty of Paris in 1763

Ended the Indian affair, French withdrew troops from India, and ceded Canada and lands east of the Mississippi to the British.

French and Indian War

Conflict in North America during the Seven Years War, where British under William Pitt defeated French forces.

William Pitt

British leader who concentrated efforts in North America, strengthened the navy, and defeated French forces during the Seven Years War.

Great War for Empire

Second phase of the Seven Years War in India and North America, where Great Britain and France supported opposing native Indian princesses.

General James Wolfe

Led northern British forces fighting over the St. Lawrence River during the French and Indian War.

Silesia

Territory in dispute during the Seven Years War, officially recognized as under Prussia's permanent control by Austria.

British Navy

Strengthened by William Pitt to cut off incoming French soldiers to the New World during the Seven Years War.

Native Indians

Paired up with the French during the French and Indian War, perceiving them as less threatening than the British.

Thirteen Colonies

Occupied by the British in North America, feared being cut off by French forts moving south along the Mississippi River during the Seven Years War.

World's Greatest Colonial Power

By 1763, Great Britain had become this after seizing major territories controlled by the French and Spanish during the Seven Years War.