because the enlightenment had a longer affect then the Great awaking. The great Awakening happened in the late 18th century when there what the "reformation" this was a time in American society when religious reform and increased religious fervor. The Age of Enlightenment (also known as the Age of Reason or simply the Enlightenment) was an intellectual and philosophical movement that dominated the world of ideas in Europe during the 18th century, the "Century of Philosophy". so them both being in the 18th century doesn't make them equal. In fact The Age of Enlightenment was longer lasting meaning that new philosophy where born. ways of thinking as well as inventing. That's what makes the Enlightenment such a big deal.