In 1381, England was ravaged by the Peasants' Revolt, a momentous uprising that challenged the established feudal order. Triggered by a poll tax and fueled by grievances over serfdom and economic hardships, this rebellion was led by Wat Tyler, a charismatic peasant from Kent. The revolt gained momentum as thousands of peasants marched on London, capturing the Tower of London and burning documents symbolizing feudal obligations. King Richard II, then just 14 years old, met with the rebels at Mile End, promising concessions and agreeing to end serfdom. However, tensions escalated, and Wat Tyler was killed during negotiations, leading to the collapse of the revolt. The aftermath was brutal, with harsh punishments inflicted on the captured rebels, and the promises made by the king were largely unfulfilled. The Peasants' Revolt, although defeated, left a lasting impact on English history, spurring discussions about social justice and foreshadowing future struggles for civil liberties.
