Voltaire Francois Marie Arouet By: Ryan Nygren, Natalie Tran, Deonshae Johnson, Xander Burd, and Adrian Colon

Early Life Voltaire was born François-Marie Arouet was born into a flourishing family. Nov 21, 1694. He was the youngest of 5 children. His mother died when he was only 7 seven years old. After his mother passed away, he began to grow a close bond with philosophe godfather.

Main Beliefs Often attacked the clergy, the aristocracy, and the government. This made him enemies in French courts, and he was sent to prison twice. Exiled to England, but never stopped fighting for religious tolerance, reason, and freedom of speech Waged a written war against intolerance, prejudice, and superstition Staunch defender of liberty

Main Beliefs Advocated for the separation of church and state Often used satire to attack his opponents Satire - the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues. Called a philosophe, the term used to describe free-thinking writers and activists

Published Works Francois Marie Arouet, using his pen name “Voltaire”, published 70+ books of political essays, philosophy, and drama. He also wrote up 20,000+ letters and 2,000+ books and pamphlets Most prolific Enlightenment writer of his time Voltaire wrote the play ‘Zaire’, the historical study ‘The Age of Louis XIV’, and satirical novel ‘Candide’, among others.

Influences/Legacies Voltaire influenced people like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson with his beliefs. He fought persistently for freedom of speech and religious belief, which influenced the first amendment of the Bill of Rights (freedom of speech). Because of him, we can speak our minds without being punished for it.

Fun Facts & Famous Quotes Called Frederick II a “nasty monkey”. “All murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.” “Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers” “Common sense is not so common” “I disapprove of what you say, but will defend to the death your right to say it.” “A witty saying proves nothing.”

Questions? Comments? Concerns? TheEnd Questions? Comments? Concerns?