Against the Rules with Michael Lewis The Sudden Celebrity of Sir John Knight from Revisionist History
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Aug 31, 2023 
Historian Jonathan Barry from the University of Exeter dives into the enigmatic world of Sir John Knight, a 17th-century Bristol merchant now at the forefront of modern gun rights discussions. He explores Knight's controversial actions and their surprising relevance to today’s Second Amendment debates. The conversation unpacks how Knight's story reflects on individual rights versus societal regulations, emphasizing the challenges historians face in revisiting his legacy. Expect humor intertwined with profound insights into how historical figures can shape contemporary legal frameworks.
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Sir John Knight's Church Incident
- In 1686, Sir John Knight, a Bristol merchant, rode to St. Michael's Church.
- He allegedly burst in, causing a commotion, but details remain unclear.
Knight's Unexpected Fame
- The John Knight case gained unexpected prominence in modern Second Amendment debates.
- It wasn't a widely known or historically significant case in England.
Knight's Character
- Sir John Knight was principled but contentious, known for his steadfastness.
- He was disliked by many and considered manipulative.
