Voltaire (1694-1778) was a French author, historian, and philosopher whose thoughts on religious toleration and moderation of authoritarian power were influential during the Enlightenment. His most famous work today is the satirical Candide, which presents Voltaire's critical thoughts on other philosophers, the Catholic Church, and the French state in order to highlight the need for real solutions to everyday problems.
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Definition
Timeline
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1694 - 1778Life of the French author, historian, and philosopher Voltaire.
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21 Nov 1694Voltaire is born in Paris.
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1718Voltaire's first play, Oedipus, is successfully staged.
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1726Voltaie is imprisoned in the Bastille.
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1734Voltaire starts to live with Gabrielle Émilie, Marquise du Châtelet.
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1734Voltaire publishes his Letters on England.
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1745Voltaire is appointed the royal historiographer in France.
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1756Voltaire publishes his Essay on the Manners and Spirit of Nations.
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1759Voltaire publishes his Candide.
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1762Voltaire publishes his Treatise on Tolerance.
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1764Voltaire publishes his Philosophical Dictionary.
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1766Voltaire publishes his Ignorant Philosopher.
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30 May 1778Voltaire dies in Paris.
