The Levellers
The Levellers were a political movement in England during the 17th century, particularly active during the English Civil War. They advocated for popular sovereignty, equality before the law, and extended suffrage, aiming to create a more democratic society. Their ideas were rooted in the belief that all men should have a voice in government and that power should be derived from the consent of the governed.
Key figures among the Levellers included John Lilburne and Richard Overton, who wrote pamphlets and engaged in public debates to promote their vision. Although their influence waned after the Civil War, their principles laid the groundwork for later democratic movements in England and beyond.