DIRECTIONS  Title page 52 “Voltaire: Religious Freedom and Free Speech.”  Write what is in blue.  Write small and write neatly.

VOLTAIRE Religious Tolerance and Free Speech

Voltaire Facts Born in France in 1694 Real name is Francois- Marie Arouet Attended a Catholic college and became a writer

witty participant in Paris salons Passionate about reforming society Spent time in prison twice.

RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE  Freedom of worship  Religious conflict was a main source of evil in the world.  No single religion possessed all truth.  Core of truth in all religions.

FREEDOM OF SPEECH  Believed strongly in freedom of speech  Criticized intolerance and oppression.  Outspokenness led to conflicts with authorities.

WHY VOLTAIRE IS IMPORTANT  His ideas greatly influenced colonial American political thinkers.  Freedom of religion and freedom of speech are in the U.S. Bill of Rights.

“I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

“Of all religions, the Christian should of course inspire the most tolerance, but until now Christians have been the most intolerant of all men.”

“It is dangerous to be right in matters on which the established authorities are wrong.”

“No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking.”