Kett's Rebellion Flashcards
What was the main cause of Kett’s Rebellion?
The illegal enclosures used by Landlords.
Who was the first target of the Rebellion?
Sir John Flowerdew was the first target as had begun demolishing the abbey in the market town of Wymondham. He directed the rioters to Robert Kett who was carrying out illegal enclosures on common land.
Why was Norwich a target for the Rebellion?
Second largest city after London, sharp divide between the rich and poor which could be exploited.
What took place in Norwich?
The mayor and council had no choice but to co-operate and provide the rebels with food and supplies. Once a government messenger had arrived to pardon the rebels, the mayor and council had fortified the city causing the rebels to bombard Norwich with cannons. The rebels offered a truce to the mayor, which the town council refused, provoking a full-scale attack.
How did the Marquess of Northampton fail?
The Marquess used an army with Italian mercenaries which resulted in more anger as foreigners were being used. He declared a pardon to those who surrendered, but only 20 took the offer. The rest launched another attack on Norwich, forcing him to withdraw.
How did the Earl of Warwick succeed?
24th August, he entered Norwich and arrested and hanged some rebels. He used guerrilla tactics and the arrival of 1000 mercenaries on the 26th provided a back-up. He captured Kett and killed up to 3000 rebels after the rebels refused to Warwick’s final attempt at negotiation.
What were Kett’s demands?
Rebels wanted better local governance, a new model for the government of their locality, ending corruption from roles of escheator and feodary. They wanted to show that they could administer law and order effectively. There was also resentment of landlords’ power and abuse of the practice of foldcourse.
What were their demands relating to religion?
The rebels were sympathetic to the move towards Protestantism. They wanted the removal of clergymen who couldn?t preach properly as they didn?t serve their local community well.
Did the rebels seek an overthrow of the government?
No, the rebels wanted radical change of the role of landed elites in government and society. They did not see themselves as traitors, and they wanted landed elites to stop exploiting the commons. They even wanted social hierarchy to remain
What were the main weaknesses of Somerset’ government?
Government resources were outstretched by the Western Rising. He had to divide his forces, allowing the rebels to organise themselves. As Norfolk (an important landowner) was arrested for treason, the local gentry lacked leadership allowing the rebellion to gather momentum much more quickly.
Why were the rebels unsuccessful?
Warwick’s army were professional, the rebels were no match for them. Kett had also made decisions, allowing the rebels to become more vulnerable to attack.
Who was Robert Kett?
He was a tanner who had made enough money to buy his own land. He ended up supporting the rebels after they began to turn their attention to him.
Why did the rebels accept Kett as their leader?
His position in the local community meant that the rebels were prepared to listen and accept his leadership. He was also very charismatic persuading them to follow him.
What was the purpose of Kett’s court of justice?
This court took place under a tree in Mousehold known as the Oak of Reformation, where he put captured gentry on trial. He aimed to show that local govt. could be run effectively.
Why did Kett refuse the pardon? And why did he use writs and commissions?
The government offered a pardon to the rebels, he argued that he wasn’t a rebel in the first place. The use of writs and commissions helped co-operation with local communities, allowing them to gain food and supplies from sympathisers.
