François-Marie Arouet, known by his nom de plume Voltaire, was a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher famous for his wit, his criticism of Christianity, especially the Catholic Church, as well as his advocacy of freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and civil liberties. Born on November 21, 1694, Voltaire became one of the most prolific writers of the eighteenth century, penning plays, poems, novels, essays, historical and scientific works, over 21,000 letters, and 2,000 books and pamphlets. A fearless critic of political and religious dogma, Voltaire's works, such as 'Candide' and 'Letters Concerning the English Nation', often led to disputes with authorities and even periods of imprisonment or exile. Despite such challenges, Voltaire's sharp wit and intellectual power brought him great fame and influence across Europe. Among his numerous works, 'The Collected Works of Voltaire' stands as a testament to his monumental contribution to Enlightenment thought and literary style, characterized by a cutting satirical acumen and an unwavering commitment to social reform through reasoned discourse. Voltaire's legacy continues to be celebrated for his promotion of rationality, his quest for justice, and his enduring impact on the principles of freedom and tolerance that underpin modern democratic societies.