What is one of the significant impacts of the Enlightenment on modern history?

The Enlightenment was a pivotal movement that fundamentally reshaped thought and society in the 17th and 18th centuries, laying the groundwork for modern democratic societies. Philosophers such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu introduced ideas about natural rights, the social contract, and the separation of powers. These concepts challenged the traditional authority of monarchies and aristocracies, advocating for government by consent of the governed.

In particular, the emphasis on reason, individual rights, and liberty inspired revolutions and reforms aimed at establishing democratic institutions that prioritize the participation and rights of citizens. This ideological shift enabled the rise of political systems where checks and balances are integral, and where the government is accountable to the populace—key characteristics of modern democracies. Thus, the influence of Enlightenment thinkers directly contributed to the development of democratic ideals, shaping the political landscape of contemporary society.