The Enlightenment had a profound effect on religion. Many Christians found the enlightened view of the world consistent with Christian beliefs, and used this rational thinking as support for the existence and benevolence of God. However, the Enlightenment led other Protestants in a very different direction. The eighteenth century saw a host of social, religious, and intellectual changes across the British Empire. While the Great Awakening emphasized vigorously emotional religiosity, the Enlightenment promoted the power of reason and scientific observation. Both movements had lasting impacts on the colonies.
They realized that they were born with natural rights and that the government was supposed to protect citizens natural rights. their views on British rule changed because they realized that Britain was not protecting Americans natural rights so Americans then wanted to overthrow the government and gain independence from Britain
