Mine are:

1. William Godwin
2. Rudolf Rocker
3. Bertrand Russell

All Libertarian Thinkers, differing substantially in their approaches. There are many more I'd like to list - but to make it fun you are only allowed three.

William Godwin: Brilliant ideas on totally free education - something I believe in. For more info see his book The Enquirer. He is HUGELY underappreciated.

Rudolf Rocker: Brillaint Writer and excellent proponent of Anarchism in the modern period. An important man in its history.

Bertrand Russell: A Slightly unorthodox choice, but I respect his conviction in his beliefs, and the fact that he went to prison defending them. An interesting Writer, especially important in the English scence. For a good start on his work to do with socialism and libertarianism see Roads to Freedom

Who are your favorites and why?

Does Tocqueville count?

I really like 'Democracy in America'.

How about Tolstoy?

Tolstoy is cool : Check it.

Of Course Toqueville counts, I have read Democracy in America - It is great!

My fav: Will Rogers.

Locke, Mill, Mises, Hayek, Friedman