Final answer:
The tax revolt of 1381, known as the Peasants' Revolt, ended with the execution of leader Wat Tyler and King Richard II's betrayal in taking back promises once the threat subsided. The revolt, sparked by socio-economic and political tensions, failed to achieve long-term change but is remembered for showing the common people's potential power.
Step-by-step explanation:
End of the Tax Revolt of 1381
The tax revolt of 1381, often referred to as the Peasants' Revolt, was a major uprising across large parts of England in 1381. Its root cause was the socio-economic and political tensions generated by the Black Death, high taxes needed for the war with France during the Hundred Years' War, and instability within the local leadership of London. The revolt climaxed with the rebels' march into London and saw acts like the storming of the Tower of London and the meeting of rebel leaders with King Richard II. However, the revolt ended with the betrayal and execution of its leader, Wat Tyler, and promises made by the king were quickly taken back once the immediate threat had ended. The authorities subsequently moved to restore order and reassert royal power, dealing with the aftermath by hunting down numerous participants, restoring their control of the cities, and solidifying the king's leadership.
Despite the initial success, such as taking over the Court of Common Pleas in Northampton, the rebellion encountered fierce opposition from the state government officials, who were being accused of receiving fattened salaries and imposing too high taxes and legal fees. Like in other historic uprisings, once the momentum was lost and leadership crushed, the revolt's fate was sealed. The rebellion also reflected a recurring theme of resistance to unfair tax burdens, lack of representation, and economic pressures on the lower and middle classes. The end of the revolt did not resolve the underlying social injustices, but it's remembered as a significant event that highlighted the potential power of the common people to effect change, even if momentarily.