Evelyn Beatrice Hall

Evelyn Beatrice Hall was an English writer and author, best known for her biographical works and her famous quote about Voltaire. Born on August 28, 1868, in London, Hall wrote extensively on the works of French Enlightenment philosophers, particularly Voltaire. She is most famous for her biography "The Life of Voltaire" (1903), which helped bring the ideas and life of the great philosopher to a broader English-speaking audience. Hall’s writing was not just focused on historical recounting, but she also captured the essence of Voltaire’s commitment to freedom of expression and his staunch advocacy for civil liberties.

In addition to her work on Voltaire, Hall was also deeply engaged in issues concerning freedom of speech and human rights, which were central themes in her writings. She was an active member of the Free Speech Movement and was widely admired for her ability to blend intellectual rigor with accessible writing. Her impact on public understanding of philosophy and political thought continues to be felt, as her works were crucial in bringing the legacy of Enlightenment thinkers into the mainstream.

One of Hall’s most famous quotes is: "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." While commonly attributed to Voltaire, it was Hall who penned this phrase in her biography of the philosopher, capturing the essence of Voltaire’s philosophy on freedom of speech. This quote reflects her own commitment to the protection of individual liberties, a theme that runs throughout her work. Evelyn Beatrice Hall's writings continue to serve as an important link between the ideas of the Enlightenment and modern democratic values.