The Enlightenment (or Age of Reason) is the term used to define the outpouring of philosophical, scientific, and political knowledge in Europe at the beginning of the 18th century. Although "he did not go to school for a single day and was essentially self-taught, his writings included a political theory that deeply influenced the American Founding Fathers and the French Revolutionaries" (Damrosch, 2005, p. 1). The End of the Odyssey of the Idiots - David Baker 2020-11-13 which statement best describes a government in which there is no separation of powers? Apic/Getty Images. The Enlightenment influenced monarchs in Europe, especially "enlightened despots," and greatly affected revolutions in America and France. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Judeo-Christian principles helped influence government in Athens. [CDATA[// >