Jonathan Swift was influenced by the political climate of early 18th-century England, particularly the Whig and Tory conflicts, which shaped his satirical style. His experiences in Ireland, where he witnessed the struggles of the Irish people under British rule, significantly impacted his writing, especially in works like "A Modest Proposal." Swift’s academic background in classical literature and his exposure to the philosophical ideas of the Enlightenment also informed his critiques of society and human nature. His friendships with notable figures, such as Alexander Pope, further influenced his intellectual outlook and literary style.