Question

What Historical developments influenced modern ideas of individual rights?

Answer 1

Influence of Renaissance and Protestant Reformation; focus on the individual; ideas that all believers are equal in eyes of God, all have the right to read and interpret the Bible and their influence on individual rights and the relationship of the individual to the state; rise of capitalism; end of feudalism.

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Judeo – Christian Influences { Classical Republicanism & Natural Rights philosophies influenced the Founders. Judeo-Christian religious traditions also influenced them. }
2. Feudalism { Society divided into different classes & groups (royals, nobility, clergy, craftsmen, peasants & serfs) each with its own rules and responsibilities. }
3. Renaissance & Reformation { Cities developed economically, educationally, and technologically, especially the printing press which meant people could read and learn themselves. }
4. The Rise of the Nation-State { At the end of the Middle Ages, rulers were beginning to expand their realms into larger and larger states and not easy to expand (Wars & Illness wiped out 1/3 to ½ of the population). }
5. The Rise of Capitalism { The increase in commercial trade and the expansion of trade over greater distances impacted old medieval society. }
6. “The Enlightenment” Inspires The American Founders { By the 18th Century, it was believed Man could solve all the problems that had plagued the world for centuries. }