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John Wilkes: The Scandalous Father of Civil Liberty

Salman Rushdie

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John Wilkes was a radical journalist, politician, and libertine who lived in the 18th century. He was a champion of civil liberties and free speech, and his writings and actions helped to shape the course of British history.

John Wilkes: The Scandalous Father of Civil Liberty

4.5 out of 5

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Wilkes was born in London in 1725. His father was a wealthy distiller, and Wilkes was educated at Westminster School and the University of Oxford. After graduating from Oxford, Wilkes embarked on a career in journalism. He founded and edited several newspapers, including the North Briton, which became a leading voice of opposition to the government.

In 1763, Wilkes was arrested for publishing an article in the North Briton that was critical of the government. He was charged with seditious libel, and was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison. Wilkes's imprisonment sparked widespread protests, and he became a popular hero among the people of London.

After his release from prison, Wilkes was elected to the House of Commons. He continued to criticize the government, and he was repeatedly expelled from the House. In 1769, he was elected Lord Mayor of London, but the government refused to recognize his election.

Wilkes's defiance of the government made him a popular figure among the people of England. He was seen as a champion of civil liberties and free speech, and his writings and actions helped to shape the course of British history.

Wilkes died in London in 1797. He is buried in St. Paul's Cathedral.

Wilkes's Legacy

John Wilkes's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a brilliant writer and a fearless advocate for civil liberties. He was also a libertine and a provocateur, and his personal life was often scandalous.

Despite his flaws, Wilkes was a man of principle. He believed that everyone should have the right to express their opinions freely, and he was willing to fight for that right. His writings and actions helped to shape the course of British history, and he is remembered today as one of the most important champions of civil liberty.

Suggested Further Reading

* John Wilkes: The Scandalous Father of Civil Liberty by John Cannon * John Wilkes: A Biography by Richard Altick * The Radicalism of John Wilkes by Christopher Hitchens

John Wilkes: The Scandalous Father of Civil Liberty

4.5 out of 5