Question

How did enlightenment contribute to the start of the French revolution?

Answer 1

One of the most important things the Enlightenment had done was popularize the idea of public debate. This gave people the chance to gather together and discuss what ideas they had for change of government. In such a way, the people were more capable of articulating grievances. The articulation of grievances is a foundation point for a revolution (like the American Revolution's Declaration of Independence where all the wrongs of the British government are listed out). In addition to this, specific ideas of Locke, Voltaire, and Montesquieu also played central roles. Voltaire was popular because he harshly critiqued noble privileges (clearly very appealing to the working class). Locke and Montesquieu also gained popularity because of their defense of private property and limited sovereignty. Another interesting point to note about Montesquieu is that some of his ideas also appealed to the nobles lawyers and officeholders who dominated France's powerful law courts. Remember that Montesquieu advocated checks and balances in governments, and these certain nobles saw themselves as the checks and balances to the king's despotic government. When conflicts arose, noble leaders called themselves the checks and balances to avoid hatred.

Answer 2

so it would be what the enlightenment had done was popularize the idea of public debate?

Answer 3

@paki

Answer 4

yeah....

Answer 5

k simple enough thxs..:)

Answer 6

pleasure...