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War of Spanish Succession
Continued the wars on the European Continent. Was fought between France and Spain over the succession of the Spanish throne after the death of Charles II. Ended with the Peace of Utrecht. Marked the rise of Britain as the major power. -
Voltaire publishes Lettres philosophiques
This was a series of essays written about Voltaire's experiences living in Great Britain. It criticized the French system of government and became suppressed. This continued to show the dominance of England in Europe as the major power. It also showed the emergence and influence of constitutional governments. -
Repeal of Witchcraft Act
Marked the end of Religious craze against Witchcraft. Took place in England and also prevented the further killing of hundreds of women. Showed the change of European society from religion to logical reasoning. Also ended the death penalty for crimes as an example of cruel punishments. -
French Encyclopedia is published
Published in France and was a general encyclopedia of knowledge. It was controversial because it separated theology as only a topic of study, rather than the entirety. Showed the change from religion to science and logical thinking. Also threatened the French government due to its ideas of representation and ways of government. -
Brittish Industrial Revolution
It began the industrial revolution, though specifically the textile industry in Britain. This was a series of scientific innovations that industrialized Europe. It began specifically in Britain because of its large access to steel and coal. Led to the rise of the middle class as urban workers were given employment with higher pay in urban areas. -
The Social Contract is published
The social contract was a theory that said that people agree to follow moral and political rules. This is an agreement between people and their government. However it argued that because of this, the government should grant people their natural rights they were given at birth, which differed from previous beliefs at the time. Had many strong ideas about the role of government and how it should treat its citizens. -
American Revolution
While it was not in Europe, it greatly affected Britain and France. Came after the Enlightenment and was based on the ideas of representation in government. The Americans fought and won against Britain, who lost its strongest and most profitable colony. Greatly inspired those in France to form their own revolution later. It was a drastic change from previous forms of government. -
Wealth of Nations was published
It was a book by Adam Smith discussing the role of people and the economy. Argued for the role of the invisible hand, which later became lassiez-faire capitalism. This was a change and transition away from mercantilism. Instead stated that people work to fulfill their own interests that eventually result in societal benefits. -
French Revolution
Was a continuity from the American Revolution and other writings, such as the Social Contract. Was the end result of the Enlightenment and led to major social upheaval within France. They overthrew the monarchy in France and established a new representative system. Lead to rise of Napoleon and Napoleonic Wars. -
The Rights of Man is published
Continuity of the French Revolution. Stated natural rights of man were liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression. It argued for the French Revolution and was for establishing a representative government. It also argued that all men are created freely and equally.