Today In History with The Retrospectors
Trouble at the Tavern
Feb 10, 2025
Explore the chaotic origins of the St Scholastica’s Day Riot in 1355, ignited by a wine dispute at Swindlestock Tavern. Nearly 100 people lost their lives in this violent clash between Oxford students and locals. The podcast reveals the deep-rooted tensions between town and gown, tracing their legacy through the centuries. From legal complexities to contemporary parallels, this tale of rivalry showcases how a simple complaint turned deadly and influenced the founding of Cambridge University.
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Quick takeaways
- The St Scholastica’s Day Riot of 1355 exemplifies the violent culmination of longstanding tensions between Oxford students and local townspeople.
- The aftermath of the riot led to a 500-year penance imposed by King Edward III, highlighting the unique relationship between the university and the town.
Deep dives
The Town vs. Gown Conflict
The longstanding rivalry between Oxford students and the townspeople, known as the town versus gown conflict, reached a violent peak in February 1355. This conflict was rooted in deep-seated tensions stemming from the university's growth, with students enjoying privileges that irked the locals. As students often disregarded secular law due to being governed by canon law, their behavior contributed to resentment among townsfolk, who felt disempowered and disrespected. This day began with a drunken dispute over the quality of wine, igniting a riot that would ultimately lead to a tragic loss of life.
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