The Role Of Kett Flashcards
(20 cards)
Who was Robert Kett before the rebellion?
He was a wealthy landowner and tanner from Wymondham, Norfolk, originally accused of enclosing common land.
How did Robert Kett react when protesters targeted his enclosures?
He accepted their complaints, tore down his own fences, and joined their cause — turning from a target into a leader.
Why was Kett chosen as leader of the rebellion?
His support for the cause, local status, popularity, and organisational skills made him a natural leader and gave the movement focus.
How many people did Robert Kett lead during the rebellion?
Around 16,000 rebels.
What was the significance of the camp at Mousehold Heath?
It became the rebels’ base near Norwich where they set up a governing council and the “Tree of Reformation” to hear grievances and maintain justice.
What was the purpose of the Twenty-Nine Articles created under Kett’s leadership?
To present clear demands, including ending enclosure, stopping rack-renting, removing corrupt officials, and reforming local justice.
How did Kett maintain order among the rebels?
He enforced strict discipline, punished looters, and banned theft — aiming to show the rebellion was justified and controlled.
What major achievement did the rebels accomplish under Kett’s leadership?
They captured and controlled the city of Norwich for several weeks.
What was Kett’s key military mistake?
He abandoned the defensible Mousehold Heath for open ground at Dussindale, where the rebels were easily defeated.
What happened to Kett after the Battle of Dussindale?
He was captured, imprisoned in the Tower of London, tried for treason, and hanged at Norwich Castle on 26 November 1549.
Why is Robert Kett’s leadership significant in Tudor history?
He led one of the most organised and disciplined popular rebellions of the Tudor period, highlighting deep social tensions.
How did Kett’s background as a landowner shape his leadership?
As a former landowner himself, Kett had insight into both sides of the enclosure conflict, which helped him understand and articulate the rebels’ grievances effectively.
Why was Kett’s leadership seen as unusual or symbolic?
He broke from his own class by siding with the rebels, symbolising moral leadership and sacrifice, which increased his legitimacy among ordinary people.
How did the “Tree of Reformation” reflect Kett’s vision?
It symbolised justice and reform — Kett aimed to show that the rebellion wasn’t lawless but focused on fairness and legitimate grievances.
In what ways did Kett act like a government figure during the rebellion?
He created a rebel council, upheld law and order, negotiated with heralds, and drafted official demands — mimicking responsible governance.
How did Kett’s actions affect the Crown’s perception of the rebellion?
His discipline and structure made the rebellion seem more threatening, as it resembled an alternative authority rather than a chaotic riot.
Why did Kett’s decision to move to Dussindale show a flaw in leadership?
It showed poor military judgment — he gave up natural defenses and exposed the rebels to professional troops in open battle.
How was Kett treated after capture, and what does this show?
He was imprisoned in the Tower of London and tried for treason, showing the government saw him as a serious political threat despite his non-noble status.
How has Kett’s legacy been viewed by historians?
Many see him as a principled reformer and symbol of resistance to injustice, while others note his lack of strategic planning.
Why is Kett’s execution significant?
It marked a harsh reassertion of royal authority and served as a warning against organised popular rebellion.
