During which century did the Enlightenment movement primarily occur?

The Enlightenment movement primarily took place in the 18th Century, a period also known as the Age of Enlightenment. This era was marked by an emphasis on reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority, which influenced a variety of areas including philosophy, science, and politics. Prominent figures such as John Locke, Voltaire, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau contributed significantly to Enlightenment thought, advocating for ideals such as liberty, progress, and separation of church and state.

This movement laid the groundwork for many modern democratic governments and shaped the course of Western philosophy. The 18th Century specifically saw the flourishing of these ideas, making it the most representative period of the Enlightenment.