📕 Chapter 3: A Long and Illustrious History
What triggered the Peasants' Revolt of 1381?
Correct answer: A new poll tax
A A new land tax
✓ A new poll tax
C The Black Death
D A foreign invasion
💡 Explanation
The Peasants' Revolt was triggered by the introduction of a new poll tax.
Key facts to remember
- Peasants' Revolt in 1381 triggered by poll tax
- Led by Wat Tyler and John Ball
- Peasants marched on London demanding end to serfdom
- Richard II met rebels at Smithfield
- Wat Tyler was killed; Richard broke his promises
- Poll tax was eventually abandoned
Why this is the answer
From the official Life in the UK study material — 3.2.5 The Peasants' Revolt 1381:
In 1381, the Peasants' Revolt broke out in England. It was triggered by the introduction of a new poll tax that everyone had to pay, regardless of wealth. The revolt was led by Wat Tyler and John Ball. Thousands of peasants marched on London, demanding an end to serfdom and fairer treatment.
The young King Richard II met the rebels at Smithfield in London. During the meeting, Wat Tyler was killed. Richard promised to meet the peasants' demands, but after they dispersed, he broke his promises and the leaders were executed. Despite its failure, the Peasants' Revolt showed that ordinary people could challenge authority, and the poll tax was eventually abandoned.
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