How Did Edwards Contribute To The Enlightenment

The Age of Reason, also known as the Enlightenment, is a time period between the late 1600s and the early 1800s. This era is often known today as being a focal point of common sense and personal reasoning. The strict religious beliefs, detailed scientific research, and the heavy political and economic involvement of this age gave the pioneers of America a much needed boost in the direction of proper settlement and creation of a functional country. During The Enlightenment era, religion played a crucial role in society. Johnathon Edwards, a puritan preacher and missionary, put forth an effort to change the ways of the congregation during this time. He feels they had diverted from the original ways of the Puritans and needed to return to the original ways in order to avoid the rage of “the God that holds you over the pit of hell” (Edwards 215). Edward speaks frequently of the fury of God to the citizens during this time period, painting him in an image of anger. He states “their foot shall slide in due time” during his sermon entitled Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God (Edwards 209). By this, Edwards is
attempting to remind the residents of the reason they fled to this new found land. This search for further religious freedom helped spark an interest in the American Revolution and the discovery of this new and different land. Also during this era, scientific research took flight to new heights and further pled the case toward separating from Great Britain’s control. Benjamin Franklin, a historical American figure and inventor, holds a high position in scientific research. Franklin is known for many of his inventions such as the Franklin stove and the bifocals. As a devout supporter of hard work and diligence, Franklin once said, “lost time is never found again” (Franklin 237). Outside of being an inventor, he is also a reader and writer. When he was not researching material, Franklin found himself heavily involved in politics. He served on many committees, most of which strongly pressed for American independence. Through his scientific research and inventions came an inspiration of critical thinking which further empowered citizens of the idea of the revolution. One of the most important areas of involvement leading to the American Revolution is the desire for a new and different political and economic system.
Thomas Jefferson, a prime example of an original American politician, put many motions into action in regard to the creation of this new land. One of Jefferson’s greatest accomplishments is the drafting of the Declaration of Independence. This single document made way for the American Revolution to set sail and succeed. Within this piece of writing, Jefferson declared that “all men are created equal” (Jefferson 762). Though this statement, Jefferson put the image of equality and freedom in sight. He also writes of the American people as “a people who mean to be free” (Jefferson 343). These statements laid the foundation of the ideas behind the creation of this document and the reasoning behind its
creation. Ultimately, a common goal leads to the American Revolution. That goal is freedom of all varieties in a society created by its own inhabitants. Without the actions of the important men and women of this time period, America would not be the safe haven for religious freedom, the forerunner in scientific research, or the political and economic leader it has become.