John Wilkes was an 18th-century English politician, journalist, and radical. He is known for his outspoken advocacy of civil liberties and freedom of the press. Wilkes was a member of the British Parliament and was involved in several controversies, including a famous legal case regarding the freedom of the press. He is also known for his role in the development of the concept of parliamentary privilege. Wilkes was a controversial figure in his time, and his actions and writings had a significant impact on the political and social landscape of 18th-century England.