John Lilburne (1614 – 29 August 1657), also known as Freeborn John, was an English political Leveller before, during and after English Civil Wars 1642-1650. He coined the term "freeborn rights", defining them as rights with which every human being is born, as opposed to rights bestowed by government or human law. In his early life he was a Puritan, though towards the end of his life he became a Quaker. His works have been cited in opinions by the United States Supreme Court.
Read more about John Lilburne: Early Life, Unlicensed Publishing, "Freeborn John", English Civil War, Quarrels With William Prynne, Agitation, Putney Debates, Written Constitution, On Trial For High Treason, 1649–1651, Return, Trial and Imprisonment, Quakerism and Death, Family, Importance, Images, Bibliography, Fictional Portrayal, Re-enactments
Famous quotes containing the word john:
“Soldier: Hey colonel, I got me a prisoner. What should I do with him?
Col. John Marlowe: Spank him.”
—John Lee Mahin (1902–1984)