The Enlightenment and Great Awakening

Enlightenment Philosophers in Europe began using reason and the scientific method to gain more knowledge of the world around them. Scientists looked beyond religious doctrines to investigate how the world worked. Who did this influence? Sir Isaac Newton Galileo Galilei Nicolaus Copernicus They soon determined the Earth revolved around the sun and not vice versa. They also concluded the world is governed not by chance or miracles, but by fixed mathematical laws.

Enlightenment These ideas traveled across Europe and eventually to the colonies. People read about this in books and pamphlets. Literacy was high in New England. Puritans supported education so that people could read the Bible. Benjamin Franklin was the colonist who embraced this movement the most. He thought he could obtain truth through experimentation and reasoning. Franklin believed human beings could use their intellect to improve their lives. How did Franklin’s intellect better his life and ours? Lightening Rod Bifocals Franklin Stove- heating system

Enlightenment Had profound effect on politics Colonial leaders such as Thomas Jefferson used reason to conclude that individuals have natural rights, which governments must respect. These principles led to colonists questioning authority of the British monarchy.

Great Awakening The Puritan church had lost its grip on society, and church membership was in decline. People were more focused on their current world and not as worried about the next stage of life. Jonathan Edwards was from Northampton, Massachusetts and a member of the clergy. He wanted to revive the intensity and commitment of the original Puritan visions and beliefs. He preached that church attendance was not enough for salvation People needed to acknowledge their sinfulness and feel God’s love for them Gave the famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” Described God’s mercy Other preachers traveled to multiple villages stirring people to rededicate themselves to God.

Great Awakening More colonists, Native Americans, African Americans were now into more organized religions. Some colonists abandoned their old Puritan or Anglican congregations and sought different denominations Baptists, Methodists Led to an increase in higher education Different colleges: Princeton, Brown, Columbia, Dartmouth to train ministers.

Similarities Both caused colonists to question traditional authority. Stressed the importance of the individual Colonists questioned Britain’s authority over their lives.