In early modern times, the first explicit atheist known by name was the German-languaged Danish critic of religion Matthias Knutzen (1646–after 1674), who published three atheist writings in 1674.

When did atheism first appear?

16th century The actual term atheism emerged first in the 16th century. With the spread of freethought, skeptical inquiry, and subsequent increase in criticism of religion, application of the term narrowed in scope.

Who started atheists?

Founded in 1963 by Madalyn Murray OHair, American Atheists has been fighting to protect the absolute separation of religion from government for over 50 years.