Voltaire, the pen name of François-Marie Arouet, was a towering figure of the Enlightenment, renowned for his incisive wit, profound intellect, and relentless advocacy for freedom of speech and thought. Born in Paris in 1694, Voltaire's literary works, including "Candide" and "Zadig," are celebrated for their satire and critique of societal norms. As a historian and philosopher, he challenged conventional wisdom and championed reason and progress. His influence extended beyond literature, shaping political discourse and inspiring revolutions. Voltaire's legacy endures as a beacon of enlightenment, reminding us of the power of ideas and the importance of questioning the status quo.