The historical context of the Age of Enlightenment in Europe, spanning the 17th and 18th centuries, was characterized by the rise of scientific reasoning, skepticism of traditional authority, and the promotion of individualism. Influenced by the Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment thinkers sought to apply reason to social, political, and economic issues, challenging established norms. This intellectual movement fostered ideas foundational to modern democracy, human rights, and secular governance, ultimately influencing revolutions in America and France.