The Enlightenment era, which spanned the late 17th to the 18th centuries, profoundly influenced American democracy by promoting ideals such as reason, individual rights, and the social contract. Thinkers like John Locke and Montesquieu provided foundational philosophies regarding governance, arguing for government accountability and the separation of powers. These Enlightenment ideals were incorporated into key American documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, fostering democratic principles that emphasized liberty and equality. The movement encouraged citizens to question authority, paving the way for revolutionary thought and the establishment of a government accountable to the people.