December 28

Born in Carlat in 1647, Bayle studied theology before fleeing to the Netherlands to escape persecution. He became one of the leading figures of the early Enlightenment through his writings and correspondence. His 'Historical and Critical Dictionary', first published in 1697, used skepticism to critique religious and philosophical dogmas. Bayle argued for freedom of conscience and the separation of church and state, influencing later thinkers like Voltaire. His works challenged orthodox beliefs and opened the way for modern critical scholarship. He died in Rotterdam in 1706, leaving a profound mark on European intellectual history.