The satirical poet whose sharp wit and heroic couplets skewered the pretentious and illuminated the human experience. His insights on good government were constantly quoted.

The poet and polemicist whose republican writings taught our Founding Fathers the value of freedom of speech and nearly cost Milton his life.

The Roman historian whose Annals and Histories are unmatched in their incisive critique of power and corruption.

The philosopher who envisioned an ideal republic and explored the depths of human knowledge through dialogue and allegory.

The French writer whose critique of European colonialism called for justice and humanity in a global context.

The philosopher and historian whose ideas on equality and justice challenged the status quo of his time. A friend of John Adams and Ben Franklin who recognized the genius of the American form of federalism.

The political strategist who revealed the darker side of power in “The Prince,” and whose “Discourses on Livy” taught the Founders the key to preserving a republic.

The Swiss legal theorist whose work on international law influenced the formation of nations and the conduct of states. His Law of Nations was the guidebook for the foundation of the American union of sovereign states.

The Swiss legal theorist whose work on international law influenced the formation of nations and the conduct of states. His Law of Nations was the guidebook for the foundation of the American union of sovereign states.

The legal antiquarian whose writings on the history of Parliament and liberty were foundational for later constitutional thought.