The important figure of the Enlightenment that influenced the development of modern democracy is John Locke. His writings on natural rights, particularly life, liberty, and property, laid the philosophical groundwork for democratic governance. Locke argued that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed and that individuals have the right to revolt against tyrannical rule. His ideas greatly influenced the Founding Fathers of the United States and were central to the Declaration of Independence and the formation of democratic ideals globally.