Enlightenment Vocabulary

Front

A monarchy that has power limited by laws and a constitution.

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limited monarchy

Front

A group of leaders who united the 13 colonies, declared independence from Great Britain and built the framework of the government for the United States. Many of their ideas came from the Enlightenment philosophers.

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Founding Fathers

Front

Government or control of a country by its own members rather than by members of a different country.

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self-government

Front

What are the natural rights according to John Locke?

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Life, liberty and property

Front

What concept did John Locke believe in regarding the relationship between governments and the will of the people?

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social contract

Front

The first document to limit the powers of the king of England. It was signed in 1215.

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Magna Carta

Front

Montesquieu's idea that political power should be divided into 3 branches - legislative, executive and judicial.

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separation of powers

Front

The first document to establish self-government in the colonies, signed on the Mayflower before the passengers left the ship.

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Mayflower Compact

Front

A period in European history that emphasized education and using logic to improve people's lives. Before this, superstition was used to explain the world.

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Enlightenment

Front

This pamphlet was written by Thomas Paine. It encouraged colonists to gain their independence from England.

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Common Sense