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The Rest Is History

414. The Peasants’ Revolt: London’s Burning (Part 2)

Feb 1, 2024
On June 13, 1381, rebel leader Wat Tyler and his army stormed London, shaking the foundations of power. The young King Richard II faced a desperate choice as demands for the abolition of serfdom echoed through the city. Tensions escalated as the rebels attacked royal symbols and engaged in fierce negotiations. The aftermath revealed chaotic confrontations and the complexities of the uprising's legacy on governance and class. The discussion also connects historical events to modern political ideologies, hinting at their continued relevance today.
52:42

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Quick takeaways

  • The rebels in the Peasants' Revolt demanded radical reforms, including the abolition of serfdom and the reorganization of the church hierarchy.
  • The Peasants' Revolt shaped the young King Richard II's perception of himself and influenced his future decisions as a ruler.

Deep dives

Rebel demands and the negotiation with King Richard II

The rebels in the Peasants' Revolt demanded the abolition of serfdom, the abolishment of poaching laws, the elimination of feudal lord's courts, and the complete reorganization of the church hierarchy. King Richard II, in an unprecedented move, agreed to these demands, even though some of them were radically egalitarian and economically progressive. The rebels saw Richard II as a trusted and beloved king, while Richard himself may have viewed the rebels as a means to assert his authority and influence in the face of his advisors. However, after the negotiation, Richard's advisors reverse many of the promised reforms, leading to ongoing unrest in various parts of the country.

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