What was the length of time John Bunyan spent in jail after preaching without a license?

John Bunyan spent a significant amount of time in jail due to his nonconformist religious beliefs and his refusal to stop preaching without a license. This lengthy incarceration, lasting approximately 12 years, occurred between 1660 and 1672. Bunyan's conviction stemmed from his preaching activities, which were in violation of the Conventicle Act that prohibited nonconformist worship outside the established Church of England. His time in prison was crucial as it allowed him to reflect and write, leading to the creation of his most famous work, "The Pilgrim's Progress." This context underscores the historical significance of his imprisonment as it not only impacted his life but also contributed to the broader religious discourse of the time.