John Locke was an English philosopher and physician born in 1632 and died in 1704, widely regarded as one of the most influential Enlightenment thinkers and commonly known as the "Father of Liberalism". He was a key figure in the development of British empiricism and social contract theory, with major contributions to epistemology and political philosophy. Locke's ideas on natural rights, government by consent, and religious tolerance deeply influenced the development of liberal political thought and were foundational to documents like the United States Declaration of Independence.

Locke's philosophical work "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding" argued that the mind is a blank slate at birth and knowledge comes from experience, challenging the idea of innate ideas. Politically, he championed limited government and the right of citizens to overthrow unjust rulers, emphasizing natural rights and the social contract. He also advocated for the separation of church and state and religious toleration.

He was born in Somerset, England, educated at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford, and also worked as a physician and government official. His broad influence spans philosophy, political theory, education, and theology.

In summary, John Locke is best known as a foundational Enlightenment philosopher who shaped liberal political philosophy and empiricism, advocating natural rights, limited government, and knowledge derived from experience.