The Age of Reason, also known as the Enlightenment, was an intellectual movement that emerged in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, science, and individualism over tradition and religious authority. Thinkers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant challenged established norms and promoted ideas about democracy, human rights, and rational thought. This period led to significant advancements in philosophy, politics, and science. The Age of Reason influenced major historical events, including the American Revolution and the French Revolution, as people began to advocate for liberty, equality, and the separation of church and state.