18th-century

Definition

The 18th century was a period marked by significant political, social, and cultural transformations across Europe, stretching from the year 1701 to 1800. This century is often associated with the Enlightenment, a movement emphasizing reason and individualism, which played a crucial role in shaping modern thought and governance. The period also saw the emergence of powerful nation-states and the gradual decline of feudalism, influencing both domestic policies and international relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Enlightenment inspired revolutionary ideas about governance and human rights, influencing events such as the American and French Revolutions.
2. The balance of power began to take shape among European nations during this century, leading to various alliances and conflicts, such as the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War.
3. Colonial expansion was significant in the 18th century, with European powers competing for control of territories in the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
4. Social hierarchies began to shift due to Enlightenment ideals, with increased calls for equality and rights for common people, leading to changes in class structures.
5. The Scientific Revolution continued into the 18th century, promoting advancements in fields such as physics, chemistry, and biology, which challenged traditional views.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment thinkers influence political structures in 18th-century Europe?
  • Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Montesquieu challenged traditional political authority by advocating for reason, individual rights, and separation of powers. Their ideas laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles, promoting the belief that governments should be based on the consent of the governed. This shift influenced various revolutions during the century, leading to significant changes in political structures across Europe.
• Evaluate how absolutism shaped governance in various European states during the 18th century.
  • Absolutism was prevalent in many European states during the 18th century, with rulers like Louis XIV of France exemplifying this model of governance. These monarchs centralized power and sought to control all aspects of their states, often sidelining traditional institutions such as parliaments. The conflict between absolutist rulers and emerging Enlightenment ideas created tensions that would ultimately contribute to revolutions seeking more representative forms of government.
• Analyze the impact of mercantilism on colonial relations between European powers during the 18th century.
  • Mercantilism profoundly influenced colonial policies in the 18th century by promoting the idea that a nation's wealth was best served by maximizing exports and minimizing imports through strict regulations. This led to fierce competition among European powers for control over colonies rich in resources. The resulting colonial conflicts often escalated into larger wars, such as the Seven Years' War, which reshaped global power dynamics and set the stage for future independence movements.

Related terms

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, science, and individual rights over tradition and religious authority.

Absolutism:

A political system in which a single ruler holds absolute power, often justified by divine right, prevalent in many European states during the 18th century.

Mercantilism:

An economic theory and practice prevalent in the 17th to 18th centuries that emphasized the role of the state in managing the economy, particularly through trade regulations and colonial expansion.