What events were influential in the development of the Enlightenment?

The raise of secularism made way for enlightenment. Rulers were no longer seen as being given their power by god but by the people they govern choosing to follow them. This line of thinking led to the mindset that common people could hold the individuals in positions of power accountable if they didn't hold to the social contract. In addition the writings of enlightened philosophers offered alternative forms of governance to the ones that had been widely accepted.

b. parliament was weaker than the monarchy.

jewish people, gypsies, and political opponents.