Verlichting, or the Enlightenment, was an intellectual movement that emerged in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasized reason, science, and individual rights, challenging traditional authority and promoting ideas of liberty and equality. Key figures included philosophers like John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant, who advocated for rational thought and skepticism of established norms. The movement significantly influenced various fields, including politics, education, and religion. It laid the groundwork for modern democracies and human rights, inspiring revolutions such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution. The Enlightenment's legacy continues to shape contemporary society and thought.