Introduction

Welcome to the Unit

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Introduction

Welcome to the Unit

A Week on Power, Reason, and Revolution

This week you’ll explore one of history’s great turning points: the shift from kings who claimed total power to the radical idea that governments should answer to the people. Along the way you’ll meet thinkers, monarchs, and revolutionaries whose ideas still shape our world.

Big question for the week

Where does a government’s power really come from — and what happens when people stop believing the old answer?

An Enlightenment salon discussion
Enlightenment thinkers debated reason, rights, and government in salons across Europe.

Key terms — try matching them first

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Terms

Absolutism
Divine Right of Kings
Rule of Law
Consent of the Governed
Scientific Revolution
Enlightenment

Definitions

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