BattlefieldsPeasants' Revolt — storming of the Tower of London
Medieval

Peasants' Revolt — storming of the Tower of London

1381
Greater London, England
Also known as: Rebels at the Tower 1381
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Greater London, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Royal authorities
Forces
c. 200-300 Tower garrison
VS
Victor
Rebels (briefly)
Forces
c. 5000-10000 rebels
Outcome
Tower entered; Archbishop Sudbury and Treasurer Hales dragged out and beheaded on Tower Hill
The Battle

History & Significance

The rebels's penetration of the Tower of London — the most heavily fortified royal castle in England — was a remarkable feat. Archbishop Sudbury (Chancellor) and Sir Robert Hales (Treasurer) were dragged out and beheaded on Tower Hill by the mob. The king had already left; the beheadings sent a message about who was responsible for the poll tax.

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