The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement that promoted the use of reason and science to reform society. Enlightenment thinkers criticized the stratified social structure and advocated for equality, liberty, and secularism. Some of their ideas spread through newspapers and salons but also faced resistance in Spain. This led to changes including the evolution of modern science from medieval science based on empiricism. The bourgeoisie grew wealthy but lacked political power, contributing to discontent and the French Revolution. Enlightened despots introduced social reforms but maintained absolute rule, failing to fully implement Enlightenment ideals. One victory was the American Revolution as the colonies gained independence after protesting taxation without representation.