Voltaire (FrançoisMarie Arouet) Quotes

A collection of quotes by Voltaire (FrançoisMarie Arouet).

François-Marie Arouet, known by his pen name Voltaire, was an acclaimed French Enlightenment writer, philosopher, and historian. He was born on November 21, 1694, in Paris, France. Voltaire was a highly influential figure during the 18th century, renowned for his wit, satire, and social commentary.

Voltaire began his literary career as a poet and playwright, achieving modest success with his works. However, it was through his numerous essays, letters, and philosophical treatises that he truly made his mark. He championed freedom of thought, religious tolerance, and the separation of church and state.

His most famous satirical novel, "Candide," published in 1759, critiqued the prevalent optimism of his time while offering a scathing critique of organized religion. Voltaire's writings often confronted tyranny, injustice, and abuses of power, making him a controversial and polarizing figure. Despite facing censorship and persecution, Voltaire remained steadfast in his commitment to challenging the established order.

Beyond his literary pursuits, Voltaire was an avid supporter of civil liberties and justice. He was an outspoken critic of the French monarchy and frequently used his writings to advocate for political reforms.

Voltaire's tireless pursuit of reason, human rights, and justice left an indelible impact on the Enlightenment movement. His ideas influenced several important thinkers and philosophers, including Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Immanuel Kant. Voltaire died on May 30, 1778, in Paris, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of history's most influential intellectuals.