Francois-Marie Arouet, otherwise known by his nom de' plume, Voltaire, was a French writer and social advocate. He was far ahead of his time reciting his ideas on subjects like freedom of religion and the separation of church and state. It is said that having been asked to renounce Satan whilst on his deathbed, the author replied, "Now is not the time to make new enemies."


b. November 21, 1694~d. May 30, 1778