The separation of church and state was important to the French people because of the power and wealth held by the clergy. Which philosopher of the Enlightenment believed in this separation?

Voltaire criticized the Catholic Church’s political influence and supported religious tolerance and keeping religious authority separate from government. This fits the question’s focus on limiting the clergy’s power and wealth. Rousseau, Locke, and Montesquieu contributed other important Enlightenment ideas, but Voltaire is the best match here.

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