-
Montesquieu publishes book, On the Spirit of Laws
In Montesquieu's book On the Spirit of Laws, he suggests the idea of the separation of poers in the government to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful. His idea "power should be a check to power" later became known as checks and balances. -
America declares independence
Thomas Jefferson, using Enlightenment ideas, wrote the Declaration of Independence declaring their separation from Great Britain. John Locke's proposed right to rebel against an unjust ruler is included and justifies their revolution. -
French Revolution
Prompted by the Enlightenment, poverty, rising prices, and extravagance from unjust rulers, the Third Estate citizens of France demanded change. They created the National Assembly and executed the monarchs to become a republic. -
Napoleon overthrows the Directory through a coup d’etat
Though Horatio Nelson defeated Napoleon in Egypt, Napoleon was still able to overthrow the Directory after realizing an opportunity from the growing lack of confidence for them from the citizens. Already a recognized war hero, he was able to drive the dissovling of the Directory and become a consul. -
Napoleon crowns himself emperor, begins to create a vast European Empire
After a plebiscite, Napoleon was elected first consul. Later, he decides to make himself emperor with the support of the citizens. Later, he expands his empire to other areas and becomes more powerful. -
Haiti wins freedom from France
A group of African slaves in the French territory led by Toussaint L'Ouverture rebelled against the minority French people for their liberation. The rebels would win their freedom by means of disease and passionate fighting. -
Padre Hidalgo calls for Mexican Independence
The grito de Dolores was a cry of rebellion issued by Padre Miguel Hidalgo to overthrow the Spanish in Mexico. He was defeated, but his uprising helped to start a revolution in Mexico. -
Napoleon is defeated at the Battle of Waterloo
Soon after becoming emperor again, Napoleon attacked the British and later both the British and the Prussians. After being defeated, Napoleon is exiled, signaling his downfall.