Contrary to received opinion, revolts and popular protests in medieval English towns were as frequent and as sophisticated, if not more so, as those in the countryside. This groundbreaking study refocuses attention on the varied nature of popular movements in towns from Carlisle to Dover and from the London tax revolt of Longbeard in 1196 to Jack Cade's Rebellion in 1450, exploring the leadership, social composition, organisation and motives of popular rebels. The book charts patterns of urban revolt in times of strong and weak kingship, contrasting them with the broad sweep of ecological and economic change that inspired revolts on the continent. Samuel Cohn demonstrates that the timing and character of popular revolt in England differed radically from revolts in Italy, France and Flanders. In addition, he analyses repression and waves of hate against Jews, foreigners and heretics, opening new vistas in the comparative history of late medieval Europe.

'A step forward and bound to stimulate and facilitate further study.'

Source: The Times Literary Supplement

'What we have here is an important book based on thorough research that never fails to enlighten and absorb the reader.'

Sean McGlynn Source: History

'This is a bold book, making large claims. Cohn provides brief accounts of numerous outbreaks of unrest in medieval towns which will be interesting to local historians.'

Heather Falvey Source: The Ricardian