John Locke believed that individuals have natural rights to life, liberty, and property, and the right to change an oppressive government. Montesquieu proposed that the best form of government divides power into judicial, legislative, and executive branches to check political power. Voltaire advocated for freedom of thought, speech, and religion as well as separation of church and state. Rousseau and Wollstonecraft argued that government should be based on popular sovereignty and secure equal rights and justice for all, including extending rights to women through education and suffrage.

1. The Enlightenment English and French Philosophers

2. John Locke (1632-1704) English

3. Individuals have natural rights: life, liberty, and property

4. People have the right to change their government if it becomes oppressive

5. Montesquieu (1689-1755) French

6. The best government is divided into judicial, legislative, and executive branches; this provides checks on political power.