Voltaire and the French Enlightenment

In Little Blue Book Number 512, Will Durant delves into the life of Francois-Marie Arouet, better known as Voltaire (1694-1778). Described as unprepossessing, ugly, vain, flippant, unscrupulous, and at times dishonest, he was also tirelessly kind and considerate, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to both his friends and his principles. My trade is to say what I think, Voltaire proclaimed, and he did so with remarkable flair across ninety-nine sparkling and fruitful volumes. A staunch advocate for freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the separation of church and state, Voltaires influence was undeniable. In 1791, as his ashes were paraded through Paris for re-entombment in the Pantheon, a staggering 100,000 people marched in tribute, while 600,000 lined the streets. The words inscribed on his funeral car proclaimed He gave the human mind a great impetus; he prepared us for freedom. (Pamela Nagami, M.D.)