If you mean the middle ages the it didn't really grant any freedom. People were kept simple minded and growth was not praised and learning for only for the rich (nobility) and church members. You were considered an outcast if you didn't go to church.
Common Sense Thomas Paine published Common Sense in January 1776 support of the Patriot cause.
The French army helped America corner the British by making a blockade and preventing any escape by water whilst the Americans attacked and sealed off any escape by land.
