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500 BCE
Ancient Greek Democracy
Ancient Greece was renowned for its early Democratic justice system, public participation, though at the time only men could be apart of it. This government decided by majority rules and each man represented himself. This laid the foundation for modern western civilization. Classic liberalism is based strongly on the ideas of individual importance, and this has heavily contributed to classic liberalism through the use of democracy -
1215
Magna Carta
A charter created with the intent to resolve tension and issues between King John and his subjects, this help establish a new relationship between the royals and their constituents. Also one of the earliest documents of the outlines of the law and established the rights and freedoms of the citizens. The Magna Carta contributed to the development of classic liberalism through the introduction of many of its main ideals, such as the rule of law, and individual rights and freedoms. -
1300
Renaissance
The Renaissance was heavily influence to today's world right after the middle age depression, culturally, artistically, economically, and politically it shaped even the modern world. The Renaissance contributed greatly to developing the growth of humanism views contributed to the idea that humans are rational beings who deserve individual rights and freedoms. Classic Liberalism was developed through the sense of individual awareness that grew under the influence of the Renaissance philosophers. -
1400
Haudenosaunee Confederacy
The Haudenosaunee Confederacy was made up of six First Nations tribes that were once at war but came together to abide by the Great Law of Peace. This had three guiding principles - divisions of power, equal participation by citizens, and clearly stated rights and freedoms. Historians have made connections from this and the american constitution, and have found obvious liberalism influences from the Haudenosaunee Confederacy in today's modern nation -
1512
Reformation
During this time period many individuals such as Martin Luther, and Henry VIII began to question the corrupt Church, they demanded a change in the church by redistributing the power through out. This lead to Protestants rebelling against the corrupt church and battling it out. The Reformation contributed to developing classic liberalism because it encouraged individuals to think for themselves, and contribute to building the societies that they individually viewed as best. -
Industrial Revolution
Many changes occurred during this time period, most notably, Britain transitioning from a society based on mercantilism and agriculture into one of modern industry. This resulted in many social, economic, and political changes and things like technological advancements, the increase in a sense of self-interest and competition. This lead to new ideas about human potential and individual - beginnings to liberalism ideology, classic liberalism was influential in this capitalist society. -
The Enlightenment
This was a time when philosophical and intellectual ideas would help develop and impact future civilization, many of the great ideas born of this time period would fuel liberal ideals and result in many rebellions and revolutions. the ideas of human potential and individual importance which would later be the foundation for classic liberalism.These ideas contributed to the development of ideals such as rights and freedoms, private property, and the ability for humans to act out of self-interest. -
American Revolution
During this time people in American no longer wanted to be under the rule of a foreign country who had no clue what was happening in their country. Influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment, they declared independence. With the creation of the "Declaration of Independence" they established themselves as an independent republican government that would be ruled by the citizens rather than a monarch. The American Revolution continued in the development and support of classic liberalism. -
French Revolution
This revolution was one of the most impact moments of classic liberalism. The feudal system was creating a great divided between the rich and poor during this time. Many lower class citizens were questioning the system and began to take arms against the King and the hierarchy that put them down. they fought for their freedom, and above all for equal rights. This demonstrated many of the aspects that are most central to classic liberalism, such as individual rights and freedoms, and civil liberty -
Changes to The Class System
As the ideas of liberalism began to truly affect society, changes in the class system also felt the affects. Private property, economic freedom, and the ability for individuals to act out of self-interest allowed equal opportunity for improved economic situations and better quality of life. The founding principles of Liberalism continued through the free market economy and equality as a result of individual rights and freedoms.
