What did 18th century politicians and other people mean by liberty and equality?

In the 18th century, liberty primarily referred to individual freedoms and the rights of citizens to govern themselves without oppressive authority, often championed by Enlightenment thinkers. Equality, on the other hand, emphasized the idea that all individuals should have the same rights and opportunities under the law, challenging the established hierarchies of monarchy and aristocracy. Together, these concepts fueled revolutionary movements, such as the American and French Revolutions, advocating for democratic governance and social justice. Ultimately, liberty and equality were seen as foundational principles for creating a fair and just society.