The famous writer and philosopher during the Enlightenment is Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in 1694. Known for his sharp wit and advocacy for civil liberties, he challenged the established norms of religion and government. Voltaire's writings promoted freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and rational thought, making profound impacts on the development of modern philosophy and political thought. His major works, such as "Candide" and "Philosophical Letters," critiqued dogma and injustice, influencing both the French Revolution and the broader Enlightenment movement across Europe and beyond.