How did the ideas of the enlightenment influence the American colonists?

The Enlightenment introduced concepts such as individual rights, liberty, and the social contract, which significantly influenced American colonists' thinking. Philosophers like john Locke argued that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, inspiring colonists to challenge British authority and demand representation. The emphasis on reason and scientific inquiry also encouraged a questioning of traditional authority, ultimately fueling revolutionary sentiments and the desire for independence. These Enlightenment ideals were foundational in shaping the values expressed in key documents like the Declaration of Independence.