Voltaire

François-Marie Arouet, known by his pen name Voltaire, was a French Enlightenment writer, philosopher, and historian whose wit, advocacy for civil liberties, and attacks on the Church made him one of the most influential figures of his age. His philosophical tales — particularly Candide — used irony and satire to attack religious fanaticism, political tyranny, and philosophical optimism. He campaigned throughout his life for freedom of speech, the separation of church and state, and tolerance of religious difference.