Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu (1689-1765) is generally referred to as simply Montesquieu. He was a French judge, man of letters, and political philosopher. He is the principal source of the theory of separation of powers, which is implemented in many constitutions throughout the world. His ideas on good governance were to shape America’s post-revolution constitution. See the township of La Brède, in Bordeaux.