Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in 1694, was a prominent French writer and philosopher known for his wit and advocacy of civil liberties. He was a leading figure of the Enlightenment, promoting ideas of freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and tolerance through his works, including the famous novel Candide.
His sharp criticism of established institutions and his commitment to reason made him a key voice in the fight against oppression. Voltaire's legacy continues to influence modern thought, and his ideas resonate in discussions about human rights and individual freedoms today.