Peasants Revolt

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- The peasants were the powerless majority of medieval England. This module tells the story of the revolt of 1381, showing how what began as a tax rebellion turned into something more significant. The module explores the origins of the revolt, its dramatic climax in London, and the aftermath.
- Credits
  - Written and Presented by Andrew Chater
    
    Location Photography: Mark Robinson
    Illustrations: Tom Judd
    Original Music: Sandy Nuttgens
    Graphic Design: Adams Trainor
    Assistant Producer: Laura Pasquali
    Production Manager: Denise Lesley
    Film Editor: Mike Burton
    Exec. Producer: Karen Johnson
    
    Produced and Directed by Andrew Chater
    
    Copyright: Lodestar Productions / Andrew Chater

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History of Britain - Rulers & Ruled

5.Peasants Revolt

1381

An exploration of the role of the peasantry in medieval political life, and of the dramatic events of the year 1381. (8.75 mins)

6.The Pastons

1470 next video 6/17

Chapter Breakdown

: 1. The attack on Cressing Temple in Essex: the start of the Peasants Revolt.

: 2. A protest about taxation soon becomes something more. The peasants question their powerlessness.

: 3. Long term causes: peasants empowered in the labour shortage that followed the Black Death.

: 4. The peasants march on London - and confront the boy king Richard II at Blackheath.

: 5. The final showdown at Smithfield... and the aftermath.

The first half of the module was shot at Cressing Temple, a medieval moated farmstead in Essex, which is worth a visit. The two 13th century barns, built by the Knights Templar, are truly impressive. And there's a charming 16th century 'paradise garden'.

The rest of the story was shot in London, at the Tower of London and Smithfield Meat Market.

(If you're anywhere near Smithfield, pop into St Bartholemew's Church - without question the finest Norman church in London).