The ideological basis of the American Revolution was rooted in Enlightenment principles, emphasizing individual rights, liberty, and the social contract. Philosophers like John Locke inspired colonists to believe that government derives its power from the consent of the governed and that individuals are entitled to life, liberty, and property. As British policies increasingly infringed upon these rights, colonists began to view their struggle as a fight against tyranny and for self-governance. The declaration of independence encapsulated these ideas, asserting the right of the colonies to resist and overthrow oppressive rule, ultimately leading to the establishment of a new, democratic nation.