The Enlightenment was the key movement that emphasized reason and individualism over tradition and authority. It encouraged critical thinking and scientific inquiry among intellectuals across Europe.

The Battles of Lexington and Concord were the spark that ignited the Revolutionary War between the American colonies and Britain. They represent the first armed engagements that eventually led to a full-scale revolution.

The Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776, outlined the colonies' desire for self-governance and separation from British rule. It set the ideological foundation for the formation of a new nation.

Voltaire was one of the foremost Enlightenment philosophers, renowned for his advocacy of civil liberties, freedom of speech, and religious tolerance. His critiques of established institutions helped shape modern democratic thought.

The Seven Years' War, fought from 1756 to 1763, involved numerous European powers and extended into colonial territories around the world. Its outcomes reshaped international alliances and colonial policies.

Social Contract Theory, as expounded by thinkers like Rousseau and Locke, argued that government authority comes from the consent of the governed. This concept laid the intellectual foundation for modern democratic systems.

Salons and coffeehouses served as gathering places where intellectuals, writers, and philosophers exchanged innovative ideas. Their discussions helped disseminate Enlightenment thought and influence social reform.

Montesquieu's idea of the Separation of Powers divides government roles into distinct branches to prevent tyranny. This principle has influenced the frameworks of many modern democratic governments.

Severe economic distress, including heavy taxes and food shortages, burdened the common people in France. These hardships, along with widespread social inequality, undermined the legitimacy of the monarchy and spurred revolutionary ideas.

The American Revolution marked a shift away from traditional monarchical rule towards government based on popular representation. It set a precedent for democratic practices that emphasized the rights of individuals and the importance of civic participation.

The steam engine revolutionized both transportation and manufacturing, marking a turning point in industrial development. Its introduction allowed for more efficient production methods which became central to the Industrial Revolution.

Feudalism was a long-standing system in Europe where land and titles were passed down through noble families. Even as new economic ideas emerged, many feudal practices continued to influence society during the 18th century.

Benjamin Franklin was celebrated for his scientific experiments and his promotion of Enlightenment ideals. His diverse contributions in science, politics, and public service make him an iconic figure of the era.

The Battle of Saratoga is widely recognized as a turning point because its success convinced France to enter the war on the side of the Americans. This alliance brought crucial military support that shifted the balance of power.

The expansion of colonial empires established extensive trade routes that connected continents. These networks promoted a global exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas, reshaping economic relations worldwide.

Mercantilist policies were designed to benefit the mother country by ensuring that trade was heavily regulated in its favor. This approach restricted the economic growth and autonomy of the colonies by limiting their trade options.

Enlightenment thinkers questioned traditional authority by emphasizing rationality, equality, and the rights of individuals. Their criticisms of established power structures gradually led to significant political and social reforms.

Salons provided an open forum for the exchange of ideas and significantly increased participation in intellectual debates. Over time, they helped democratize knowledge and contributed to broader educational and cultural reforms.

Despite social constraints, many women played influential roles by hosting salons and fostering intellectual discussion. Their contributions significantly aided the spread of Enlightenment ideas even though they were not always officially acknowledged.

Enlightenment political philosophies shifted the focus from divine or hereditary right to the legitimacy of governance based on popular consent. This pivotal idea laid the groundwork for the development of modern democratic institutions and practices.