Question

Which historical event affected John Locke's understanding of government

Answer 1

Answer:

The Glorious Revolution

Details:

The Glorious Revolution in England was led by members of Parliament against King James II,  who had tried to assert greater power and control for himself as king, infringing on their rights.   The "revolution" was a change in government, mostly without violence.  In June of 1688, seven highly-placed Englishmen sent a letter of invitation to William of Orange (who was husband to James II's daughter Mary), inviting him to come to England and be supported by them and the people as king.  As king and queen, the new rulers of England became known as William III and Mary II.

The Glorious Revolution showed that the people could pursue a  change of ruling power. English philosopher John Locke wrote his Second Treatise on Civil Government in the wake of the Glorious Revolution, advocating that the people had the right to change a government if the government was not properly serving the people whom it governed.   Locke believed people are born as blank slates--with no preexisting knowledge or moral leanings. Experience then guides them to the knowledge and the best form of life, which includes choosing to form governments--and replace governments if necessary--to make society better and to protect their rights. This was his application of the "social contract" theory.

Additional note: Leaders in the American colonies became fans of the philosophy of John Locke, and believed they had the right to pursue a change in government and free themselves from control of Great Britain.