Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam

The argument against the Divine Right of Kings and the advocacy for natural rights such as life and liberty is primarily attributed to John Locke. Locke believed that individuals have inherent rights that are not granted by any authority, but are simply part of being human. This philosophy posited that governments are established to protect these natural rights, and when a government fails to do so, citizens have the right to revolt. Through his works, especially "Two Treatises of Government," Locke articulated the idea that legitimate government must gain the consent of the governed, a stark contrast to the notion of the Divine Right of Kings, which held that monarchs were divinely appointed with absolute authority. Locke's concepts influenced the development of liberal thought and democratic ideals, making him a foundational figure in social contract theory.