Essay Comparing Jefferson And Montesquieu

The Enlightenment was a period in the 18th century that marked the push for self-discovery, growth and the recognition of rationalism. This period developed several influential thinkers, many of whom are celebrated today. Among these thinkers are Thomas Jefferson and Baron Montesquieu, two of the Enlightenment's most notable pioneers. The Enlightenment Movement brought forth thinkers throughout the world, and the environmental differences between Jefferson and Montesquieu shaped their crucial, but contrasting ideas. Although Thomas Jefferson and Baron Montesquieu were revolutionary philosophers with differentiating ideals, it is undeniable that when conjoined, their ideas are the foundation of our world today. Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron

In these works, his true beliefs were revealed. The Spirit of the Laws, details his strong beliefs towards government and explains that to maintain a peaceful state in a country, the government powers must be separated into three branches. This idea is known as the separation of powers. Each branch would be tasked with a specific task, and in turn, be expected to uphold its responsibility. This influential concept discouraged one powerful leader, and instead, allowed for accountability. Montesquieu heavily believed in checks and balances. Checks and balances provide branches with ways to “check” and regulate the powers of each other; an extension of his concept of separation of powers. While these two ideas focus on government, Montesquieu also advocated for core individual ideas. He believed in natural rights, equal rights, the abolishment of slavery, and civil liberties. Though Montesquieu supported and wrote about equal rights, his theories on women seem to discredit that. He believed that women contained the “ability to govern,” but were “weaker than men… [and] had to obey the commands of their husband” (Baron De Montesquieu). In addition to equal rights, he believed in the demolition of slavery. To Montesquieu, slavery was a heinous act that needed to be discredited but could be justified in rash environments. In conclusion, Montesquieu was a prominent Enlightenment thinker whose ideas ranged from the

In his youth, Jefferson can be described as an obsessive student. He would read, study, and practice for hours on end. This routine allowed Jefferson to explore the works of many other Enlightenment thinkers. These works aligned with Jefferson’s beliefs and common Enlightenment ideas can be seen in Jefferson’s creations. Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, an impressive document that liberated the United States, and he also authored many short essays that advocated for natural rights. In addition to being a Founding Father, Jefferson was also America’s 3rd President. Under his leadership, he “oversaw the Louisiana Purchase…and he authorized the Lewis and Clark Expedition” (Thomas Jefferson Summary), two acts that helped advance the new nation. These are a few of Jefferson’s many