The Enlightenment and the Idea of Natural Rights
Understand how John Locke's natural rights philosophy and Enlightenment thinking crossed the Atlantic to reshape colonial ideas about government in Grade 7 history.
Key Concepts
A new way of thinking called the Enlightenment spread across Europe. Thinkers used reason and science to question old ideas about government. These exciting thoughts soon traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to the American colonies.
One influential thinker was John Locke . He argued that all people are born with natural rights , including the rights to life, liberty, and property. Locke believed a government's main job was to protect these rights for its citizens.
Common Questions
What were natural rights according to John Locke?
John Locke argued that all people are born with natural rights—specifically the rights to life, liberty, and property. These rights were not granted by governments but belonged to every person simply by being human. Locke believed a government's primary duty was to protect these inherent rights.
How did Enlightenment ideas travel to the American colonies?
Enlightenment thinkers in Europe used reason and science to question traditional ideas about government and authority. Their writings were read widely, including in the American colonies, where educated colonists like Thomas Jefferson absorbed these ideas. The philosophy spread across the Atlantic through books, pamphlets, and correspondence.
Why were Locke's ideas considered revolutionary?
Locke's ideas were revolutionary because they suggested governments should serve the people rather than the other way around. He argued that people had the right to challenge rulers who failed to protect their natural rights. This concept directly justified colonial resistance to British authority and influenced the Declaration of Independence.