“One does not arrest Voltaire.”
- November 22, 1890 – November 9, 1970
- French
- Military Leader, Statesman, President of France, Founder of the Fifth Republic
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Quote
“One does not arrest Voltaire.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Charles de Gaulle’s deep awareness of national identity, cultural legacy, and the symbolic power of intellectual freedom. By invoking Voltaire, a towering figure of the Enlightenment and a champion of free thought, de Gaulle implies that certain individuals represent more than just themselves—they embody principles, values, and the very spirit of a nation. To arrest such a figure would not merely be an act of law enforcement, but a violation of the ideals they stand for.
Historically, this quote is said to have been uttered when de Gaulle was informed of the potential arrest of a prominent French intellectual or dissenter. By responding with these words, he drew a parallel to Voltaire’s role as a fearless critic of tyranny and dogma, signaling that France must protect its thinkers, not persecute them. It underscores his belief that liberty of expression and thought were non-negotiable pillars of the French Republic.
In today’s world, the quote serves as a powerful reminder of the need to defend intellectual freedom, especially in times of political unrest or authoritarian drift. When governments silence dissenting voices, they risk undermining the very foundation of democratic society. De Gaulle’s remark champions the idea that the state must uphold—not suppress—the voices that question, provoke, and inspire progress.
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