In February 1768 radical John Wilkes had returned from his self-imposed exile in France where he had remained for four years after being convinced for libel and blasphemy. Wilkes' financial situation had become desperate necessitating him to return to reclaim a seat at Westminster. Wilkes' attempt to win one of the four seats in the City of London had fallen considerably short several days prior.
In February 1768, radical John Wilkes returned from his exile in France following libel and blasphemy charges. His financial situation worsened, forcing him to return to claim a Westminster seat. Prior to this, Wilkes' attempt to win one of the four City of London seats had failed.