Voltaire

French philosopher and author
Also known as: François-Marie Arouet

Voltaire (born November 21, 1694, Paris, France—died May 30, 1778, Paris) was one of the greatest of all French writers. Although only a few of his works are still read, he continues to be held in worldwide repute as a courageous crusader against tyranny, bigotry, and cruelty. Through its critical capacity, wit, and satire, Voltaire’s work vigorously propagates an ideal of progress to which people of all nations have remained responsive. His long life spanned...