DeepSummary
The episode recounts the events surrounding British Member of Parliament John Wilkes' expulsion from the House of Commons in 1764 for publishing criticism of King George III and the government, deemed as seditious libel. Wilkes was initially arrested but released on parliamentary privilege, leading to a duel where he was injured. However, his privilege was later revoked, prompting him to flee to France to avoid prosecution.
Despite being re-elected to Parliament multiple times, Wilkes was repeatedly expelled and sentenced in absentia. His actions made him a symbol of liberty and freedom of speech, garnering widespread popular support. After returning from exile in 1768, Wilkes continued his political career, serving as Lord Mayor of London and advocating for press freedom and the American Revolution.
Wilkes' expulsion from Parliament on January 19, 1764, marked a pivotal moment in his life, transforming him from a vocal critic to a martyr for free speech and parliamentary rights. His defiance and resilience in the face of government opposition helped shape the broader concept of freedom of expression.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- John Wilkes, a British Member of Parliament, was expelled from the House of Commons in 1764 for publishing criticism of King George III and the government, deemed as seditious libel.
- Wilkes' actions sparked a legal battle, exile, and widespread popular support, transforming him into a symbol of liberty and freedom of speech.
- Despite being repeatedly expelled from Parliament and sentenced in absentia, Wilkes continued his political career and advocacy for civil rights, serving as Lord Mayor of London and supporting causes like the American Revolution.
- Wilkes' defiance in the face of government opposition and his resilience in standing by his beliefs had a significant impact on shaping the broader concept of freedom of expression and parliamentary rights.
- The episode highlights the historical tensions between the government's desire to maintain control and the growing public demand for civil liberties, particularly freedom of speech and press.
- Wilkes' expulsion from Parliament on January 19, 1764, marked a pivotal moment in his life and in the broader struggle for civil rights in Britain.
- The episode illustrates the power of an individual's actions and beliefs to spark broader social and political movements, even in the face of severe consequences.
- Wilkes' story serves as an example of the enduring struggle for freedom of expression and the role of dissenting voices in shaping societal progress.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “What started as a difference of political opinion will now become a matter for the courts.“ by Narrator
- “Issue 45 will prove to be the first in a chain of events that will eventually see Wilkes ousted from his seat in parliament and forced to build a new life in the very country Wilkes believed England should still be at war with.“ by Narrator
- “The mob yells chants that denounce both the government and the king. And it isn't long before things turn ugly between the protesters and soldiers who are sent to control the crowd.“ by Narrator
- “He'll focus on issues such as the American Revolution and the freedom of the press to report on parliament. In doing so, he will become an early advocate for a broader freedom of speech, an incredible comeback for a man forced to flee his country for expressing his opinions.“ by Narrator
Entities
Company
Person
Organization
Place
Product
Episode Information
History Daily
Airship | Noiser | Wondery
1/19/24
January 19, 1764. British Member of Parliament, John Wilkes, is expelled from the British House of Commons for seditious libel
- Support the show! Join Into History for ad-free listening and more.
History Daily is a co-production of Airship and Noiser.
Go to HistoryDaily.com for more history, daily.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.