What philosopher influenced the declaration of independence

Enlightenment Thinkers and Their Core Ideas

John Locke, often credited as the father of modern republican government, had a profound impact on the American Founding Fathers. Locke's theory of natural rights argued that every individual is entitled to life, liberty, and property, principles woven into the Declaration of Independence.

He proposed that a legitimate government operates with the consent of the governed, embodying the social contract. If a government failed to protect these natural rights, Locke believed citizens held the right to overthrow it, a notion that resonated deeply with Thomas Jefferson and others leading up to the American Revolution.

Baron de Montesquieu introduced the concept of separation of powers, a fundamental idea visible in the U.S.

Constitution. Montesquieu suggested dividing government authority among three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial to prevent tyranny by ensuring that no single branch could domi