Which Enlightenment philosopher's ideas regarding natural rights and the social contract most influenced the Declaration of Independence?

A Montesquieu

B Voltaire

C Jean-Jacques Rousseau

D John Locke

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

John Locke's theories of natural rights (life, liberty, property) and the government's duty to protect them, or be overthrown if it fails, were central to Jefferson's drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

💡 Why is D) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Which Enlightenment philosopher's ideas regarding natural rights and the social contract most influenced the Declaration of Independence?" is Option D: John Locke.

The other options — A) Montesquieu, B) Voltaire, C) Jean-Jacques Rousseau — are incorrect for this GED Exam Prep question. As explained above: John Locke's theories of natural rights (life, liberty, property) and the government's duty to protect them, or be overthrown if it fails, were central to Jefferson's drafting of the Declaration of I…

📚 About This GED Exam Prep Practice Question

This 2-level GED Exam Prep question from the Social Studies topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free GED Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

Practice GED Exam Prep Quizzes → Browse All Questions Study Flashcards

Which Enlightenment philosopher's ideas regarding natural rights and the social contract most influenced the Declaration of Independence?

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

📚 About This GED Exam Prep Practice Question

Related GED Exam Prep Questions