Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu
1689–1755
Nationality: French
Historical Period: The 18th Century
Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu (1689-1755) was one of the most influential legal theorists and political philosophers of the 18th century. His ideas about the separation of powers and checks on the power of the executive had a profound impact on the architects of the American constitution.
See the Liberty Matters online discussion on Montesquieu on Liberty and Sumptuary Law
Quotes from Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu:
- Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu on law as a fishing net
- Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu was fascinated by the liberty which was enjoyed in England, which he attributed to security of person and the rule of law
- Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu thought that commerce improves manners and cures “the most destructive prejudices”
- Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu states that the Roman Empire fell because the costs of its military expansion introduced corruption and the loyalty of its soldiers was transferred from the City to its generals
Titles from Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu: