When did newspapers begin to operate without the need for a government license?

Okay, let's talk about the history of newspapers and government control. Before 1695, printing in Britain was heavily regulated. The government required licenses to publish anything, which meant they had a tight grip on what information was being circulated. This licensing system had been in place for decades, effectively censoring news and opinion. Think about it: if you needed permission to print, you'd be less likely to criticize those in power! However, in 1695, Parliament decided not to renew the Licensing Act. This was a huge turning point. It meant that newspapers and other publications could operate without needing prior approval from the government. This freedom from licensing is seen as a crucial step towards freedom of the press and the development of a more open and democratic society. While there were still laws like libel that could restrict what newspapers printed, the removal of licensing was a significant victory for those who believed in the free flow of information. So, 1695 is the key year because it marks the end of government pre-publication censorship of newspapers.