When people think of the Peasants' Revolt, usually, the focus is on the Kentish Rebels. But what about the rebels north of London? Join Eri Berry as she explores how the 1381 Peasants' Revolt kicked off in Essex, the stories of the key players from this rebellion and the legacy they left behind. In 1381, widespread anger over unfair tax burdens, economic hardship, and centuries of feudal control sparked the Peasants' Revolt - one of the most famous popular uprisings in English history. In this episode, Eri traces the origins of the rebellion and explore the pivotal role played by the people of Essex, who fired the very first sparks of revolt and marched alongside Wat Tyler to demand fundamental change from the young King Richard II. Time Stamps: 00:00 Intro 00:26 Life as a Peasant 02:23 How Essex is involved 03:15 The Feudal System 07:39 The London Social Hierarchy 07:59 The Impact of the Plague 08:57 Some questionable legislation 14:13 Poll Tax 18:10 The Great Rumour and attempted tax collection 20:26 Meanwhile in Kent… 22:35 John Ball 25:57 Richard meets the Rebels 27:22 The Flemish Weavers 32:13 The Rebels' Demands 33:07 Meanwhile in the Tower of London… 35:28 The Death of Wat Tyler 37:10 Rebellions elsewhere quashed 38:35 The legacy of the Peasants' Revolt 40:38 Thanks for listening! 41:00 Credits Key Names and Places: King Richard II, John of Gaunt, Thomas Baker, John Ball, Wat Tyler, Essex, Fobbing, Brentwood, Colchester, London, Tower of London, Canterbury, St. Albans Show Notes and Attribution: Please click here. DISCLAIMER While I do my best to bring you accurate, well-researched content, I’m only human! If you spot a mistake, have a correction, or want to share additional context, please feel free to reach out via email at unexpectedessex@gmail.com. Socials and Subscribe Links: YouTube: Unexpected Essex Instagram: @unexpectedessex2026 TikTok: @unexpectedessex Facebook: Unexpected Essex Facebook Page Website: www.unexpectedessex.co.uk Contact: unexpectedessex@gmail.com
