Voltaire

François-Marie Arouet (November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778), better known by the pen name Voltaire (also called The Dictator of Letters), was a French Enlightenment writer, deist and philosopher.

Related Topics:
November 21 - 1694 - May 30 - 1778 - Pen name - French - Enlightenment - Writer - Deist - Philosopher

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Voltaire is well-known for his sharp wit, philosophical writings, and defense of civil liberties, including freedom of religion and the right to a fair trial. He was an outspoken supporter of social reform despite strict censorship laws in France and harsh penalties for those who broke them. A satirical polemist, he frequently made use of his works to criticize Church dogma and the French institutions of his day. Voltaire was also known to be gifted with great intelligence. It is believed that he had an IQ of over 190.

Related Topics:
Wit - Philosophical writings - Civil liberties - Freedom of religion - Censorship - Dogma

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