In this wide-ranging treatise on the nature of law, the famous French political philosopher Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu (1689-1755) explores the essentials of good government; compares and contrasts despotism, monarchy, and democracy; and discusses the factors that lead to the corruption of governments. Among the many topics considered are education of the citizenry, crime and punishment, abuse of power and of liberty, individual rights, taxation, slavery, the role of women, commerce, religion, and a host of additional subjects. One of the most influential books of all time, this masterpiece of political philosophy was widely read throughout Europe, attracted an especially enthusiastic readership in England, and had a profound effect on the framers of the American Constitution, who emulated Montesquieu by insisting upon a balance of power among branches of government--executive, legislative, and judiciary--the now famous "separation of powers."

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