A compilation of speeches and writings by eminent American orator and atheist Robert G. Ingersoll is available as "The Works of Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 12". Some of his most well-known pieces, which addressed a range of topics including politics, literature, and religion, are included in this collection. In particular, Ingersoll questions the idea that faith offers a trustworthy foundation for believing in The Foundations of Faith, saying that our opinions should be based on reason and evidence instead. He advocates indivisible rights and freedoms for everyone, regardless of race or gender, in Liberty for Men, Women, and Children. The Great Infidels also includes biographies of prominent nonbelievers throughout history including Thomas Paine, Voltaire, and Thomas Jefferson. In several of his essays, including The Gods, The Christian Religion, and The Errors of Moses, Ingersoll also discusses Christianity. The collection also contains essays showcasing Ingersoll's political views, including "The Political Outlook" and "Individuality." While the former promotes progressive policies like women's suffrage and workers' rights, the latter emphasizes the value of individual freedom and responsibility. All things considered, "Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 12" is a priceless resource for anybody curious in the ideas and achievements of this significant person in American history.
Known as "the Great Agnostic," Robert G. Ingersoll was an American lawyer, author, and orator who advocated for agnosticism during the Golden Age of Free Thought. He lived from August 11, 1833, to July 21, 1899. In Dresden, New York, Robert Ingersoll was born. His father, John Ingersoll, was a radical Congregationalist preacher who supported abolition and regularly moved his family as a result of his views. While American revivalist Charles G. Finney was on a tour of Europe, Rev. John Ingersoll temporarily filled in as the preacher. After Finney's return, Rev. Ingersoll stayed as Finney's co-pastor and associate pastor. In 1853, "Bob" Ingersoll spent a time teaching in Metropolis, Illinois, where he delegated the "larger part of the instruction, while Latin and history absorbed his own attention" to one of his pupils, the future judge Angus M. L. McBane. Ingersoll had already worked as a teacher in Mount Vernon, Illinois, at some point before taking the position in Metropolis. On February 13, 1862, Ingersoll wed Eva Amelia Parker (1841–1923). Their two daughters were well-known feminists and suffragists, Eva Ingersoll-Brown, was the elder daughter.
