The Enlightenment: An Enthralling Guide to a Period of Scientific, Political, and Philosophical Discourse in European History

Can you imagine how the world would be different today if there had been no Enlightenment era? The Age of Enlightenment, which lasted throughout the 18th century, brought about fundamental changes in people's thinking and transformed the entire fabric of society. Even ordinary people began to question the entrenched beliefs and dogmas. They wanted education, justice, freedom, and progress. They struggled to eliminate despotic rulers and desired to be governed by democratically elected representatives. But how did this fundamental shift in thinking occur in a relatively short period? And who were the great thinkers and philosophers of that era who dared to go against the established authority of the church and the power of the autocrats? Are you curious about how the Enlightenment influenced the French and American Revolutions? If so, this book holds the answers you seek. You will also learn about the following: The ideals of the Enlightenment, including reason, individual freedom, and democracy; How the average person viewed the Enlightenment; The philosophy and impact of great thinkers like Rousseau, Locke, Hume, and Voltaire; How the American and French Revolutions brought about changes to the traditional monarchy; The massive progress in education, science, and social justice; A brief look at the Scientific Revolution and the inventions that changed history; The explosive growth of trade and commerce that reduced poverty and created wealth; The remarkable women who stood up for women's rights; And much, much more!