The movement in Europe that sought to end absolute monarchies is known as the Enlightenment or the Age of Enlightenment. This intellectual movement promoted ideals such as liberty, democracy, and reason, leading to challenges against absolute rule. Philosophers like John Locke and Voltaire criticized the divine right of kings and advocated for a government accountable to the people. The Enlightenment significantly influenced revolutionary movements, most notably the French Revolution, where the principles of citizens' rights against monarchical absolutism were put into action, leading to the establishment of constitutional governance.