Aim: How did Enlightenment ideas inspire the colonists in their development of a new government? Do Now: What does it mean to enlighten someone? Brainstorm the idea

The Enlightenment Intellectual freedom and reason over tradition Questioning of authority Promoted a scientific approach How did Enlightenment ideas inspire the colonists in their development of a new government?

Core Values of the Philosophes 1. Reason – truth could be discovered through reason 2. Happiness – rejected medieval belief that people should concentrate on finding happiness in the hereafter rather than finding contentment & joy in this world 3. Progress – Humankind could improve 4. Liberty – called for liberties achieve from the Glorious Revolution in the English Bill of Rights How did Enlightenment ideas inspire the colonists in their development of a new government?

“I do not agree with a word you say but will defend to the death your right to say it” Voltaire

I. Enlightenment Philosophers How does the declaration of Independence reflect the principles of American Democracy? a A.Historical Background 1.After harsh and cruel monarchs, philosophers began to question Kings right to rule B.John Locke 1.Argued the governments are created to serve and protect the people 2.Governments who abuse “natural rights” should be overthrown 3.Declaration of independence contains same philosophy

How does the declaration of Independence reflect the principles of American Democracy? C. Montesquieu 1. Governments power should be split into 3 separate branches (separation of powers) 2. Goal= keep any ruler from gaining too much power 3. American government split into 3 branches 4. Each branch has its own powers and checks the other branches D. Rosseau 1. Gov’t must be based on the will of the people (majority rules or Democracy) 2. American gov’t based citizens votes

Whose ideas most reflect our government in America today? Why?” How did Enlightenment ideas inspire the colonists in their development of a new government?

Enlightenment Ideas US Constitution Separation Of Powers Checks & Balances Gov’ts power comes from the people People have natural rights to life, liberty and property Guaranteed Individual Rights Gov’t’s authority comes from people Separation of three branches of gov’t Checks & Balances