Peasants' Revolt

By History And Culture Media

2/16/2025

The Peasants’ Revolt of 1381: Causes, Events, and Impact on Medieval England

What Was the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381?

The Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, also known as Wat Tyler’s Rebellion, was a major uprising of laborers, farmers, and urban workers in medieval England. Sparked by economic hardship, political unrest, and oppressive taxation, the revolt saw thousands of commoners rise up against the feudal system and the ruling elite, marching on London to demand reform.

Although the rebellion was eventually crushed, it marked a turning point in English history, signaling the decline of serfdom and the rise of social awareness and class conflict in late medieval society.

Historical Context and Causes

1. The Black Death (1348–1351)

The Black Death killed over one-third of England’s population, creating a severe labor shortage. As a result, peasants demanded higher wages and greater freedom, but the Statute of Labourers (1351) legally restricted wage increases and movement.

2. Feudal Tensions

The traditional feudal system kept peasants bound to the land with few rights. Tensions between lords and tenants escalated as attempts were made to reinforce pre-plague conditions.

3. Heavy Taxation and the Poll Tax

To fund wars with France during the Hundred Years’ War, the government imposed three poll taxes (1377, 1379, and 1380). The third was especially resented—it was a flat-rate tax on every individual over age 15, regardless of income.

4. Weak Government and Corruption

The minority reign of King Richard II (only 14 years old in 1381) left real power in the hands of unpopular royal advisors like Simon Sudbury (Archbishop of Canterbury) and Robert Hales (Lord Treasurer). Their policies fueled popular anger.

Key Events of the Peasants’ Revolt

May–June 1381: Outbreak of Violence

The revolt began in Essex and Kent, where tax collectors were attacked.
Rebels organized under leaders like Wat Tyler and John Ball, a radical priest who preached against social inequality.

June 13–15: March on London

Thousands of rebels entered London, with support from sympathetic locals.
Key royal buildings were looted and destroyed.
The rebels executed high-ranking officials, including Archbishop Sudbury and Lord Hales.
They demanded the abolition of serfdom, a fair tax system, and an end to aristocratic privileges.

June 15: Meeting at Smithfield

King Richard II met with Wat Tyler and the rebel leaders.
Tyler was killed by the Lord Mayor of London during a confrontation.
Richard promised reforms to calm the crowd—promises he later revoked.

June 16 and Beyond: Repression

With Tyler dead, the rebellion lost momentum.
Richard’s forces regained control, and the revolt was suppressed.
Hundreds of rebels were executed or punished.

Key Figures

Wat Tyler – Charismatic leader of the rebels, killed at Smithfield.
John Ball – Radical priest and advocate for equality: “When Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?”
King Richard II – Young monarch who temporarily appeased the rebels, then reversed reforms.
Simon Sudbury – Archbishop of Canterbury, killed by rebels.
Robert Hales – Lord Treasurer, also executed during the revolt.

Impact and Legacy of the Peasants’ Revolt

1. End of Serfdom (Gradually)
Although immediate demands were denied, the revolt accelerated the decline of serfdom in England. Over the next century, most peasants became free tenants.

2. Social Awareness and Reform
The revolt challenged the divine right of kings and feudal hierarchy, encouraging future movements for justice and reform.

3. Strengthening of Monarchy (Short-Term)
Richard II reasserted royal authority, but his reliance on repression and broken promises damaged the monarchy’s image.

4. Inspiration for Later Revolts
The Peasants’ Revolt served as a precursor to future social uprisings in English history, including the English Civil War.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What caused the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381?
A: It was caused by high taxes, feudal oppression, labor laws, and widespread discontent after the Black Death.

Q: Who was Wat Tyler?
A: Wat Tyler was the leader of the revolt, representing the demands of peasants and laborers before being killed in London.

Q: What did the rebels want?
A: They demanded the abolition of serfdom, fair taxation, freedom of movement, and an end to corruption and feudal injustice.

Q: What happened after the revolt ended?
A: King Richard II reneged on his promises. Many rebels were punished or executed, but the long-term decline of feudalism continued.

Q: Why is the Peasants’ Revolt important?
A: It was the first major popular uprising in English history and signaled the beginning of social change and class awareness in medieval Europe.

Conclusion

The Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 was more than a failed uprising—it was a turning point in English social history. Sparked by injustice and inequality, it highlighted the rising voice of the common people against oppressive systems. Though the rebellion was crushed, it undermined the foundations of feudalism and paved the way for a more modern, mobile, and free society.