What Chapter Is the Enlightenment for AP World History?

If you are preparing for the AP World History exam, you may be wondering what chapter covers the Enlightenment. The Enlightenment was a period of intellectual and philosophical growth that took place in Europe during the 18th century.

It was characterized by a focus on reason, individualism, and skepticism towards traditional authority. In this article, we will explore which chapter of AP World History covers the Enlightenment.

The Enlightenment in AP World History

The Enlightenment is covered in Chapter 16 of the AP World History curriculum. This chapter is titled “Science and Religion in the Age of Enlightenment.” It covers the major themes and ideas that emerged during this time period, including:

  • The rise of scientific thought and experimentation
  • The questioning of traditional religious beliefs
  • The influence of Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, Voltaire, and Rousseau

Key Concepts to Understand

To fully understand the significance of the Enlightenment, it’s important to be familiar with several key concepts. These include:

Empiricism: The belief that knowledge should be based on observation and experimentation rather than tradition or authority.

Secularism: The separation of religion from government and public life.

Social Contract: A theory that individuals give up some of their natural rights in exchange for protection from a government.

The Impact of the Enlightenment

The ideas that emerged during the Enlightenment had a profound impact on European society. They challenged traditional institutions such as the Church and monarchy and laid the groundwork for modern democracy. The emphasis on reason and scientific thought also led to significant advancements in fields such as medicine, physics, and chemistry.

Preparing for Exam Questions About the Enlightenment

To do well on questions related to the Enlightenment on the AP World History exam, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the key concepts and themes covered in Chapter 16. Make sure to review the major Enlightenment thinkers and their contributions to the movement. Additionally, be familiar with the impact that the Enlightenment had on European society and how it paved the way for modern democracy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chapter 16 of AP World History covers the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and philosophical growth that took place in Europe during the 18th century. Understanding the key concepts and themes of this time period is crucial for success on the AP World History exam. By reviewing the major Enlightenment thinkers and their contributions, as well as the impact that this movement had on European society, you can feel confident in your ability to answer questions related to this topic.