Audio Guide Script
Peasants’ Revolt was a pivotal moment in English history that shook medieval society in the summer of 1381.
Our journey begins in Essex on May 30, 1381, where the first flames of revolt were ignited. Villagers gathered to protest against the oppressive poll tax and unfair labor practices, their discontent fueled by years of economic hardship following the Black Death. The revolt quickly spread through Kent, Essex, and East Anglia.
By early June, thousands of peasants and townspeople were marching towards London, led by Wat Tyler from Kent and the radical priest John Ball. On June 12, the rebels reached Blackheath, where Ball delivered a rousing sermon promoting social equality.
On June 13, rebels breached London, overwhelming guards and storming the Tower of London. They freed prisoners, destroyed records, and burned properties associated with royal officials, including John of Gaunt’s Savoy Palace.
The following day, June 14, young King Richard II, only 14 years old, met some rebels at Mile End. He initially agreed to their demands, including the abolition of serfdom. However, during this meeting, another group of rebels executed several high-ranking officials in the Tower of London, including the Archbishop of Canterbury.
On June 15, a crucial meeting took place at Smithfield between the king and Wat Tyler. The rebel leader boldly presented their demands, but the encounter ended in tragedy when Tyler was struck down by the Lord Mayor of London, William Walworth. King Richard, showing remarkable courage, rode out to the leaderless rebels and declared, “You shall have no captain but me,” effectively diffusing the situation.
In the aftermath, the government’s response was harsh. Despite initial promises of clemency, many rebel leaders were executed, including John Ball on July 15. The promised reforms were largely abandoned, with Parliament nullifying all pardons on June 30.
Though suppressed, the Peasants’ Revolt marked a crucial shift in the relationship between common people and those in power. While serfdom was not immediately abolished, its decline accelerated in the following years. The revolt highlighted growing discontent with feudal obligations and the impact of the Black Death on labor relations.
This uprising remains one of the most significant in English history, demonstrating the power of collective action and shaping the course of social justice for generations to come.
Let’s continue our journey to Martin Tower, where we can get a glimpse into the lives of the Yeoman Warders.