The American and French Revolutions

The great European powers were ruled by sovereigns who had absolute power over their populations. In the 18^th century (also known as the Age of Enlightenment), great thinkers, inspired by British parliamentarianism and the theories of John Locke, challenged the monarchy and its abuses. These philosophers are known as the philosophers of the Enlightenment. Their ideas proposed alternatives to monarchy and conveyed the idea that political regimes should respect fundamental human rights. In support of these ideas, protest movements were organised and led to revolutions. This is what happened in the United States and France.