414. The Peasants’ Revolt: London’s Burning (Part 2)
Feb 1, 2024
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This podcast explores the violent events of the Peasants' Revolt in 1381, including the rebels' demands and targets in London, Richard II's negotiation with the rebels, the impact on his character, and the connections between the revolt and the poll tax. It delves into the significance of this revolt in English history and its potential long-term consequences.
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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.
Suppression of the revolt and aftermath
The rebellion was met with strong repression from the king's forces, resulting in the execution of hundreds of rebel leaders and sympathizers. However, the majority of the rebels, who were previously granted a pardon, were allowed to disperse and return to their homes. The revolt did not achieve its stated goals, as serfdom was not formally abolished, tolls and monopolies remained intact, and the powerful figures in the kingdom, such as John of Gaunt, retained their position and influence. Although the revolt seemed to fail on the surface, it left lasting legacies, such as the elimination of poll taxes for the next 600 years and a general distrust of oppressive government in the common populace.
Richard II's experience and impact
The Peasants' Revolt had a significant impact on the young King Richard II, who was just 14 years old at the time. The rebellion served as a formative experience, enhancing Richard's sense of his own charisma and authority. It set the stage for his assertive rule and his belief in his unique connection with his subjects. However, while Richard initially upheld the concessions made to the rebels, he eventually reversed many of them, leading to ongoing unrest and discontent among the populace. The revolt's influence on Richard's perception of himself and his future decisions played a pivotal role in shaping the course of his reign.
Ambiguity and legacy of the rebellion
The Peasants' Revolt carries a sense of ambiguity and can be interpreted in different ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a radical and progressive movement, striving for egalitarianism and challenging the existing power structures. On the other hand, it can also be viewed as a royalist revolt with a strong commitment to free enterprise and the dismantling of regulations. Additionally, the revolt's geographical hotbeds, such as Kent, Essex, and East Anglia, have been associated with political movements in later centuries, reflecting a lasting legacy. Ultimately, the revolt may not have achieved all its objectives, but it left a significant impact on English history and the memory of the common people.
On the 13th of June 1381, the rebel army of English peasants, led by Wat Tyler, entered London and brought chaos, death and destruction upon some of the city’s most important buildings and figures, among them the Archbishop of Canterbury and his home at Lambeth Palace. Within the Tower of London, the 14 year-old Richard II and his government still cowered, with the rebels demanding that Richard’s treacherous advisors be handed over. Desperate, the charismatic young King was convinced by his advisors to ride out and meet the rebels. A meeting ensued, upon which the whole course of English history depended, as the radicals demanded terms that would mean the abolition of serfdom, and the transformation of the English social order forever.
Join Tom and Dominic as they describe the gory and unprecedented events of the Peasants' Revolt, and discuss the stories of mob violence, murder and vandalism…
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Tom and Dominic are back onstage this summer, at Hampton Court Palace in London!