I am not sure about freedom of speech in Europe during the 14th century maybe for the King ..
I am sure Chandler will give us more details about this.
however, saying that there is freedom of speech in the US is only partly true IMO.
Shortly before the Irak invasion in 2003, many people were uncomfortable to voice their opinion if they were not in its favor.
they would be called unpatriotic very rapidly. And I am talking about people who were born in the US. some people were even called traitors.
some would have conversations about it but behind closed doors.
And that was 4-5 years ago not several centuries ago.
freedom of speech in the US? maybe but there is a lot more of it in Europe IMO.