The emergence of (blank) lead people to question the role of religion and government

Probable  Modern science  (the Scientific Revolution)

The Scientific Revolution (16th-17th centuries) questioned superstition and traditional beliefs that had not been investigated.  The Enlightenment (18th century) further championed this approach to knowledge, emphasizing the use of reason in all matters, in contrast to following superstition or unquestioningly accepting traditional beliefs.  

The Scientific Revolution showed that there are natural laws in place in the physical world and in the universe at large.  Applying similar principles to matters like government and society, Enlightenment thinkers believed that using reason will guide us to the best ways to operate politically so we can create the most beneficial conditions for society.  For many Enlightenment thinkers, this included a conviction that all human beings have certain natural rights which are to be protected and preserved.    This led to changes of approach to how society should be governed -- moving away from ideas like the "divine right of kings" to the establishment of more democratic, constitutional societies.

we will reach the goal of freedom in birmingham and all over the nation,