The Peasants’ Revolt
Summary
This episode details the Peasants' Revolt of 1381, tracing its origins in the labor shortages following the Black Death and the resentment toward the poll tax. Host John Hopkins, with medieval historian Juliet Barker, explores how leaders Wat Tyler and John Ball united diverse social classes to march on London, where rebels destroyed the Savoy Palace and executed key royal advisors. The narrative culminates in King Richard II’s strategic handling of the crisis at Smithfield, which dispersed the army but led to the rebels' eventual execution. The summary concludes by analyzing the revolt's l…
Topics discussed
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The Poll Tax Meeting in Brentwood, 1381
Crowd Reaction and Allegations of Tax Inspector Abuse
Introduction to the Peasants Revolt and Host John Hopkins
Social Structure: Serfs, Villains, and the Middle Class
Impact of the Black Death on Labor and Wages
Statute of Laborers and Restrictions on Freedom
Local Protests and the Cost of War with France
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Corruption, Contempt, and King Richard II's Image
Planning the Revolt: Boatmen, Priests, and Targets
Wat Tyler Elected Leader and March to Canterbury
Rebels in Canterbury and John Ball's Imprisonment
John Ball's Rescue and the King Secured in the Tower
Approach to London and City Demographics
Sacking of the Savoy Palace and John of Gaunt
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Execution of Archbishop Sudbury and Tower Officials
Negotiations at Mile End and King's Promises
Confrontation at Smithfield and Death of Wat Tyler
King Richard's Turn and Suppression of the Revolt
Aftermath: End of Poll Tax and Serfdom
Sponsor: Silicon Valley Bank and 1st Citizens Bank
Legacy: Wat Tyler in Myth and Modern Politics
Preview: Short History of the English Civil Wars
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