The Wilkesite Movement 1768

What happened in 1768?

John Wilkes returned to England from France, and he was promptly arrested, and sentenced to 22 months in prison.

When and how many people were gathered in London where Wilkes was incarcerated?

In May 1768, 30,000 people gathered in London demanding his release.

What happened in this gathering?

Troops fired into the crowd, killing six and wounding twenty.

What happened whilst Wilkes was in prison?

He was elected to Parliament three times, and on each occasion he was expelled for libel. On the fourth try, the Commons illegally installed a rival.

What did Wilkes' treatment suggest to Americans?

His treatment, which was well reported in colonial newspapers, suggested to Americans that the British government was pursuing a concerted programme to suppress liberty on both sides of the Atlantic.