The Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, also known as Wat Tyler’s Rebellion, was a major uprising in England caused by economic and social tensions following the Black Death, high taxes due to the Hundred Years’ War, and unpopular labor laws.
Key Causes:
- Poll Taxes: The immediate trigger was a third poll tax in four years, seen as unfair and burdensome, especially on the poor.
- Economic Hardship: After the Black Death (1348–1350), labor became scarce. Landowners tried to suppress wages using laws like the Statute of Labourers (1351), which angered workers.
- Feudal Oppression: Peasants resented feudal duties and serfdom, wanting freedom and better living conditions.
- Weak Royal Authority: The young king, Richard II, was only 14, and real power was in the hands of unpopular advisors.
Main Events:
- The revolt began in Essex and Kent.
- Rebels, led by Wat Tyler, marched to London, joined by John Ball, a radical priest who preached equality (“When Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?”).
- The rebels attacked symbols of authority—burning legal records, killing tax collectors, and executing officials like the Archbishop of Canterbury, Simon Sudbury.
- King Richard II met the rebels and made promises, including abolishing serfdom.
Outcome:
- Although the revolt failed in the short term, it shook the foundations of feudal England, and over time, serfdom declined.
- Wat Tyler was killed during a confrontation with the king’s men.
- The rebellion was eventually crushed, and Richard II reneged on his promises.
