The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority, promoting ideas such as liberty, progress, and the scientific method. Key figures included philosophers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant, who challenged existing norms and encouraged critical thinking. This period laid the groundwork for modern democratic societies and influenced various fields, including politics, science, and education. The Enlightenment also inspired significant events, such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution, which sought to apply its principles in governance and society.