Henry J. Sage
Sage American History: The Philosophy of John Locke
Writings of philosopher John Locke on religious toleration, government and society from which students will gain an understanding of the underpinnings of American government.
Franklin and Marshall College
Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary: Franklin and the American Enlightenment [Pdf]
Essay on the Enlightenment as typified in America by Benjamin Franklin.
Library of Congress
Loc: Religion in 18th Century America
The Library of Congress offers this detailed essay on the renewal of religious beliefs in 18th century America. It discusses deism, a tenet of Enlightenment, and the Great Awakening.
Princeton University
Princeton Companion: The Founding of Princeton
This page from the Princeton University Press discusses how the founding of Princeton and other colleges of its time was a direct result of the Great Awakening.
Independence Hall Association
U.s. History: The Beginnings of Revolutionary Thinking
The American Revolution was close to 200 years in the making. Read about the philosophies and attitudes toward government, as well as the diverse populations who came to the British colonies, that eventually fomented rebellion.
Independence Hall Association
U.s. History: Beginnings of Revolutionary Thinking: Impact of Enlightenment
The ideas of the Enlightenment began in Europe, but they were acted upon in the American colonies. See how the philosophies of John Locke and Rousseau influenced the thoughts and actions of Puritan clergy and political figures like...