Baron de Montesquieu

Change and Continuity

In his life, the absolutist French government remained until years after his death from the French Revolution.

Montesquieu’s The Spirit of the Law managed to change and shape the many government systems. The American Constitution was modeled after his work and several other nations used his idea of an ideal government for their own.

Historical Perspective

Montesquieu was born in absolutist France which may have been a factor for his ideas of how to improve the government systems, particularly France.

Montesquieu based his ideas of Separation of Power off other countries he visited as well as historical research.

Historical Significance

Modern democratic governments were shaped by Montesquieu's idea of Separation of Power in the government.

Spread the ideas of the enlightenment in his works, The Spirit of the Laws and Persian Letters, making people question the government/authority systems so people would not fear them and instead feel safe in it.

Cause and Consequence

The enlightenment caused the spread of ideas of human rights, free market economy, freedom of thought, and more. These factors further sparked French citizens' desire to make a change to their government.

For consequence, Montesquieu’s works and ideas were widespread and revolutionary, this helped spread the desire for an improved government, making it a contributing factor to the French Revolution.