Appetizer

The century from the mid-1600 to the mid-1700s set the intellectual stage for the American Revolution. The early 1600s had seen the English Civil War, which had resulted in the execution of the King and the temporary existence of an English Commonwealth (republic), which quickly descended into tyranny again. This was followed by the restoration of the monarchy, and then by the Glorious Revolution in which the heir of that monarch was deposed and William of Orange invited to take the English throne. These repeated changes of government in England created an environment where numerous authors were able to advance their views on why government existed, what its purpose should be, and when and how it could be changed. These authors included Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, who retain significant influence today.

Meanwhile, the continued development and refinement of the English common law by jurists such as William Blackstone provided significant influence on ideals of freedom, justice, and the rule of law which continue to have worldwide impact. The concept of the rule of law was also championed during this time by Charles Montesquieu.

Finally, this was also the period of the Great Awakening, a religious revival that swept both the British Isles and the American colonies. The resulting movements had immense social and political impacts, which are briefly considered here.