Kett Rebellion

Question 1

Causes of the Kett Rebellion?

Answer 1

1. Social Issues:
   - Feel exploited by local gentry/lords.
   - Wanted an end to lords using bailiffs to intimidate the poor.
   - Stop lords selling wardships.
   - Rivers free to use by all.
2. Economic Issues:
   - End to enclosure.
   - Prevent lords using common land.
   - Rent prices should be at 1485 levels.
   - Stop lords buying up all the local land.
   - Inheritance fees should be fair.
3. Religious Factors:
   - Lords should have less influence in church.
   - Tithes should be less frequent.
   - The local priest should be active and teaching.
   - Priests should be elected by the congregation.
4. Political Factors:
   - Elections for local officials.
   - Fines should only be issued to those who can afford it.
   - Somerset should reconsider all laws made since Henry VIII.

Question 2

What price should rents be lowered to?

Answer 2

1485 levels.

Question 3

What factors made the Kett Rebellion a threat? (6 points)

Answer 3

1. Crowd of 16,000.
2. Moved fast:
   8th July - Local Rioting.
   12th July - Camped on Mousehold Heath.
3. Army preoccupied by war. Mercenaries employed.
4. Rebels stole a coastal defence cannon.
5. Successfully captured Norwich.
6. Lord Sheffield killed.

Question 4

What factors made the Kett Rebellion less of a threat? (3 points)

Answer 4

1. Concerned with local politics.
2. No animosity towards Edward of Somerset - no desire to overthrow.
3. No noble backing.