Episode 18 - Colonial Dissent: Blasphemy, Libel and Tolerance in 17th Century America

Summary: Americans are the most supportive of free speech around the world. But in 17th Century colonial America criticizing the government, officials or the laws was punishable as seditious libel and could result in the cropping of ears, whippings, and jail time. Religious speech was also tightly controlled and blasphemy was punishable by death in several colonies. Despite the harsh climate of the 17th century, the boundaries of political speech and religious tolerance were significantly expanded.