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507 BCE
Ancient Greek Democracy 507 - 404BC
Thought as the first democracy in history. Women, slaves and minorities were exempt from voting or decision making. Which left only twelve percent of the Athens to participate. Other cities created democracies but none were well documented. Polis was much further than most of Europe.
Being the first democracy it was seen to be the first steps towards liberalism. It put power into people hands and set out rules. Individual and public importance and participation was key in this democracy. -
5 BCE
Haudenosaunee Confederacy
Six nations, previously at war with each other, formed a confederacy. Agreed and created the Great Law of Peace by an oral constitution. each tribe was given roles in government and leaders were elected on merit. It was one of the longest and oldest participatory democracies.
It brought the people, freedom, equality and individual rights, all principles of classic liberalism.The could voice their opinions and views on topics within the government. -
1215
Magna Carta
A Latin written document limiting powers of the monarchy in Great Britain. It guaranteed basic rights for all free men.
Fundamental rights for citizens granted them some freedom. Rule of rule, the beginnings of liberalism, granting protection via rules that govern them. It allowed citizens to have some power and a voice. Voting for someone they trust is one of many example. Individual rights and freedoms were presented in this document, which is a big principle of classic liberalism. -
1517
Reformation 1517 - 1648
The reconstruction of the Catholic Church in Europe. Became corrupt due to the immense power it held. The church had wonders from its true purpose and was reformed.
Reformers eventually broke from the church to make their own decisions, within reason. Individuals started making their own decisions was an early liberal movement in Europe. Divine belief faded as they leaned towards humanity. -
Renaissance 1400 - 1600
Renaissance means "rebirth". Rebirth of social, political and intellectual movements in society. Middle ages and modern time was brought together by Europe time of change. Dignity of mankind provoked the rise of humanism. People began to believe in themselves, going against the common thought of a "greater power". Individualism was born and lived by. Man could determine his own true nature sparked the rebirth. -
The Enlightenment 1685 - 1815
The age of the development of reason relied on European thinkers to promote reason as the primary source of reason. The thought of divine power was substituted with reason and individualism.
Rule of law, private property, economic freedom and individual rights and freedoms are all principles of classic liberalism from this period. ideas and perspectives worked together to form these principles. Growing acceptance for science and rational thought led to industrial revolution. -
The Enlightenment- extended
People were "enlightened" by the various philosophies and demanded that they have rights which called for a less dictatorial government. People were starting to believe more in facts and science than just faith and common beliefs, this was then turned into rights and freedoms. -
Industrial Revolution 1760 - 1840
People lived by the hierarchy system, prior to the Industrial Resolution. The movement from the feudal system was a harsh change for some. New liberal, so new ideas became accepted. There was a lose of control on the higher powers. The movement resulted in vast improvements to production of foods and goods.
Laws and ideas such as private property, individual and economic freedom and self interest emerged. Farmers bought land and owners stated taking risks to compete. There was an extreme -
Industrial Revolution- extended
fluctuation in economy and power; this made it hard for some to cope and adapt. The lifestyle changes would be immense among most, if not all, citizens. -
American Revolution 1763 - 1787
Created and helped establish The United States, as the people wanted Independence and freedom from Britain. The Declaration of Independence a republican form of government.
This allows the citizens to contribute to the governing of their own nation. The liberal actions of people were based on the right to life, independence and liberty within society. The insurance of self interest symbolized the war again Britain. When Britain lost ideas like, "all men are created equal", were written -
American Revolution- extended
int the Declaration of independence; then became the constitution of America. -
French Revolution 1789 - 1799
One of the most significant events in history. Due to the King's investment in the American Revolution and excessive spending, France was in financial troubles. The society split into strict social classes. he working class had no rights, little government involvement and little power. They were taxed heavily, which led to mass poverty. French citizens started this revolution and overthrew the government. The power began to shift to the citizens who started to fight for their own importance. -
French Revolution - extended - 2
The rigid classes started to fade and equality and freedom started to rise. After the violent revolts eventually reformed the french society.
The suppression of basic rights and needs started the revolution. Served as an example to Europe and around the world that liberalism through nationalism could be achieved. Humanists beliefs and actions sparked this among the country.They showed the world that liberalism and individualism are important aspects of life. -
French Revolution - extended - 1
They were rewarded with rights and freedoms and the proper rule of law. -
Changes to class system
Distinct class systems were diminished, this was a period of great change. The idea of liberalism took hold of society and the thought of being born into a class was revoked. Classic liberalism considered the individual as unique and heightened opportunity. Classes based on wealth became the new system (lower, middle, upper).
Even though some are blessed with being born into money, classic liberalism gives one a chance to create their own wealth. Focused on economic freedom and private property, -
Changes to class system - extended
which were made more available. Allowed greater equality and suggested social distinction diminishing.
