The 18th century, known as the Age of Reason, was marked by the rise of Enlightenment thinkers who believed in solving societal issues through science and reason, primarily in France. Key philosophers like John Locke, Voltaire, Montesquieu, Adam Smith, and Rousseau contributed to ideas that influenced both political thought and the French Revolution. Enlightened monarchs attempted to implement these ideas in their governance, although tensions ultimately led to revolutions fueled by societal demands for reform.

2. The 18 th century was the age of reason . Men believed that
they could solve their problems by science and logical
reasons.
It all started in France where by 1750 Paris became the centre
of philosophers.
In this period educated people were interested in books and
in certain cities such as London and Berlin , educated people
used to meet in cafes and discuss politics, philosophy and
inventions.
Although not everyone accepted the ideas and thinking of
enlightenment this period led to the cause of the French
revolution.

3. John Locke- A British philosopher , he
wrote the Two Treatises of Government
, in which he argued that men have the
right to oppose and protest against the
government .
Voltaire- A French philosopher , in his writings
he opposed the catholic church accusing her
for leaving the people ignorant

4. Montesquieu- A French philosopher , he wrote
The Spirit of the Laws in which he divided the
government into 3 into monarchy , republics
and despotism .
Adam Smith- A Scottish philosopher , in
his book The Wealth of Nations he
discussed the economy and production.
His book led to the rose of liberalism and
socialism .

5. Rousseau- A Swiss philosopher, he wrote
The Social Contract , he believed that men
is the state on nature and the society ruin
him . His book was influenced by leaders
during the French revolution.

6. This is a term given to kings , queens and emperors
who put in practise the political ideas of the
philosophers. By these they hoped that they will stop
people from brining revolution. Unfortunately later
revolution was created because nobles demanded for
more privileges.

7. Fredrick 2 king of Prussia- He held all
persons including himself as a servant. By
his reforms he made Prussia more
powerful.
Maria Theresa Empress of Austria – She
set up a secret police to examine laws and
make new refoms.

8. Joseph 2 of Hapsburg-certain monasteries of the churches
were turned into schools.
Catherine 2 empress of Russia- Under her
rule Russia won new lands, she also
applied the ideas of philosophers in her
rule.