American Revolutionary Periodor The Age of Reason

(1750 -1800)

Puritans vs. the Revolutionary Period

• By the end of the 1700s, the Puritan influence on America began to fade.

• Scientists such as Galileo and Newton, philosophers like Voltaire and Rousseau,—the writers and thinkers of the time valued reason over faith.

• Unlike the Puritans, they had little interest in the hereafter, believing instead in the power of reason and science to further human progress.

• They believed that people are by nature good, not evil.

Puritans vs. the Revolutionary Period

• Time of Enlightenment-questioning traditional authority and embracing democracy.

• In contrast to the private soul-searching of the Puritans, much of what was produced during the Revolutionary period was public writing—expectations for a new form of government.

• The most important pieces of literature during this time period were political documents, speeches, essays, and pamphlets (inexpensive little books that usually argue for or against a political cause. Could reach thousands of people quickly.)

• Non-fiction was far more influential than fiction.

First political cartoon by Ben Franklin in 1754 encouraging the Colonies to unite.

Historical Events Influence Writing

• England wanted to control the government for colonies in the New World.

• They imposed several types of taxes to help pay for debts.

• Led to Revolutionary War.• Colonists declared themselves

free and independent in 1776 and presented the Declaration of Independence to England.

• When the Constitution was approved in 1788, the United States of America was born.

The Age of Reason as a Literary Period

• Age of Reason: a movement that was marked by an emphasis on reason rather than tradition, scientific inquiry instead of religion, and representative government in place of monarchy.

Benjamin FranklinHelped draft Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution. Wrote his Autobiography and tried to achieve moral perfection. A statesman, inventor, and diplomat.

NOTABLE AUTHORS

Thomas PainePamphlet Common Sense, helped propel colonists to revolution. Uses persuasive techniques and the art of language to

convince people to change their thinking.

Patrick HenryFamous Speech in the Virginia Convention which convinced leadership to prepare for war with Britain. Known to use rhetorical devices to help communicate ideas. Advocated the right to bear arms. FYI: he had 26 children!

Thomas JeffersonFounding father who is noted for the Declaration of Independence. He developed the policy of separation of church and state. Was the 3rd U.S. president.