HRS - Ask. Learn. Share Knowledge. Logo

In History / College | 2025-07-03

How did Enlightenment ideas influence early US government?

A. Equal rights were extended to women and African Americans.
B. A new authoritarian government was created to control people.
C. A government based on the social contract was established.
D. Individual states were banned from creating their own governments.

Asked by dnddemon

Answer (2)

The Enlightenment influenced early U.S. government by promoting the social contract, which emphasized that governing authority comes from the consent of the governed. This led to a system with democratic representation and checks and balances, rather than authoritarian rule. Thus, the principles of Enlightenment thinkers laid the foundation for a government that valued individual rights and local governance within a unified national structure.
;

Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-04

The Enlightenment influenced early US government by introducing ideas like the social contract, which emphasized the legitimacy of government based on the consent of the governed. This led to the establishment of a democratic government with checks and balances rather than authoritarian control. Ultimately, the principles of Enlightenment thinkers helped form a representative government that respects individual rights and local governance. ;

Answered by GinnyAnswer | 2025-07-04