Key Concepts in Modern History

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Social Contract

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Agreement among individuals to form a society and abide by its rules

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John Locke

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Philosopher advocating natural rights: life, liberty, property

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Montesquieu

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Proposed separation of powers in government

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Enlightenment

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Intellectual movement emphasizing reason and individualism

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American Revolution

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Colonies' fight for independence from British rule

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French Revolution

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Overthrow of monarchy, rise of democracy in France

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Industrial Revolution

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Transition to new manufacturing processes in 18th-19th centuries

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Steam Engine

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Key invention driving the Industrial Revolution

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Urbanization

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Movement of people from rural areas to cities

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Karl Marx

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Critic of capitalism, author of 'The Communist Manifesto'