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In a brief essay (c. 150 words), compare and contrast how the Enlightenment played out in England and in France. What did the two countries share in this period? How were they different?

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Final answer:

The Enlightenment had significant impacts in both England and France, questioning traditional authority and promoting ideas of liberty and equality. England established a constitutional monarchy while France experienced a revolution influenced by Enlightenment thinkers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Enlightenment had significant impacts in both England and France, although the two countries had some differences in how the ideas played out. Both countries shared a growing emphasis on natural rights, a shift in power dynamics, and a challenge to traditional authority.

In England, Enlightenment ideas influenced the Glorious Revolution of 1688, which established a constitutional monarchy and limited the power of the monarch. This led to the development of parliamentary democracy and the protection of individual rights.

In France, the Enlightenment contributed to the French Revolution of 1789. Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu advocated for a constitutional monarchy, similar to England, while others like Rousseau emphasized the power of the people and popular sovereignty.

Overall, the Enlightenment in both countries questioned traditional authority, promoted ideas of liberty and equality, and played a role in shaping the political systems of both England and France.

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