Answer :
Final answer:
Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin, among the American Founding Fathers, are considered to embody the spirit of the Enlightenment in the colonies due to their espousal of Enlightenment values such as reason, skepticism of authority, belief in natural rights, and the importance of education.
Explanation:
Among the American Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin are widely regarded as embodying the spirit of the Enlightenment in the colonies. They were profoundly influenced by the philosophical and political ideas of the Enlightenment, and these concepts significantly shaped their views, writings, and actions, which laid the groundwork for the American Revolution.
For instance, Franklin, a polymath, was deeply engaged in the scientific and philosophical developments of his time. He was a proponent of reason, science, and skepticism of authority, which are key features of Enlightenment thought. His inventions, dedication to public service, and pragmatic approach to politics exhibit significant influence from Enlightenment philosophy.
Similarly, Thomas Jefferson, known for drafting the Declaration of Independence, represented Enlightenment ideals through advocating for the separation of church and state, believing in natural rights, and emphasizing the importance of education. His ideological foundation derived from John Locke's Enlightenment thoughts, which argued for the fundamental rights to life, liberty, and property. Jefferson reflected these principles in the Declaration of Independence, asserting the importance of unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
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