Philosopher · Early modern period · France
Montesquieu
1689–1755
French nobleman and judge whose Spirit of the Laws of 1748 taught that liberty survives only when power checks power. His separation of powers shaped the American Constitution. He lived 1689 to 1755.
Facts
- Born
- 1689, near Bordeaux, France.
- Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Montesquieu
- Died
- 1755, Paris.
- Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Montesquieu
- School
- Enlightenment political theory.
- Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Montesquieu
- Known for
- The Spirit of the Laws: liberty requires the separation of legislative, executive, and judicial power; laws fit climates and customs.
- Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Montesquieu
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