Introduction

The Levellers had their name bestowed upon them by their enemies in 1647 at the time of the Putney Debates. But they were recognisable to both friends and enemies as a distinct political grouping some time before this, known as the 'London agents', or more simply as John Lilburne's supporters. Lilburne emerged from prison to play a leading role in the street protests that resulted in Charles I's decision to flee his capital in 1642. But Lilburne was developing intellectually as well as as a practical agitator. The radicals of the English Revolution had little ideological heritage to guide them. The Levellers did not survive the revolution they helped to create. In the wake of the execution of the king in January 1649, two possible courses were presented to the English Republic. Leveller leaders were imprisoned and Lilburne was put on trial for his life.