The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement characterized by a focus on reason, science and individualism. It was based on rational thought and aimed at providing people with knowledge that could be used to improve their lives. The Enlightenment thinkers championed freedom from tyranny, as well as from religious doctrines, which influenced many of their ideas about government and society. This in turn helped to shape some of the core beliefs behind the American Revolution, including a belief in natural rights such as life, liberty and property; an emphasis on individualism; and a commitment to freedom from arbitrary rule. The Great Awakening was a spiritual revival movement that began in America during this same period of time. It focused more on emotional elements than rational ones – it sought to bring people closer to God through personal experience rather than relying solely on doctrine or theology. Its emphasis on personal transformation influenced early revolutionaries by helping them realize they had power over their own destiny instead of being beholden to oppressive rulers or systems . This idea ultimately inspired many colonists to fight for independence from England because they felt empowered to do so thanks in part due influence great awakening provided . Both movements thus played very important roles leading up revolution itself though ways each impacted development thought prior revolt differed significantly While enlightenment mainly responsible introducing concept self-governance beyond traditional structure ideas around free practice religion open views nature rule , great awakening gave individuals sense agency enabling them become active participants

Sample Solution

The Enlightenment and the Great Awakening were two major cultural movements of the 18th century that had a significant impact on the American Revolution. While both movements shared certain similarities, there were also some notable differences between them that helped to shape the thinking behind the American Revolution.