Stop Press

It is often claimed that press censorship came to an end in England at the close of the 17th century. But it persisted, thanks to an unsavoury network of government spies.

The Compleat Auctioner (detail), English engraving, c.1700 © Bridgeman Images.
The Compleat Auctioner (detail), English engraving, c.1700 © Bridgeman Images.

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