William Walworth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Walworth
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The death of Wat Tyler, by Jean Froissart
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| 23rd and 29th Lord Mayor of London | |
| In office 1374–1375 |
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| Preceded by | Adam de Bury |
| Succeeded by | John Warde |
| In office 1380–1381 |
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| Preceded by | John Hadle |
| Succeeded by | John Northampton |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 1385 |
Sir William Walworth (died 1385) was an important English leader and politician. He was chosen as Lord Mayor of London twice. His terms were from 1374 to 1375 and again from 1380 to 1381. He is most famous for his role in stopping the Peasants' Revolt in 1381. During this event, he killed the rebel leader, Wat Tyler.
Walworth's Life in Politics
William Walworth's family came from Durham. He learned his trade from John Lovekyn, a successful fishmonger. Walworth later took over Lovekyn's role as a city leader (Alderman) in 1368.
He became Sheriff of London in 1370. Then, in 1374, he was elected Lord Mayor of London. Walworth also served as a Member of Parliament for the City of London several times. He was an MP in 1371, 1376, 1377, and 1383.
As Lord Mayor, he worked to stop unfair lending practices in the city. He often lent money to King Richard II. Walworth also disagreed with the king's uncle, John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster. Many people in London did not like John of Gaunt.
The Peasants' Revolt of 1381
Walworth's most well-known action happened during the English peasants' revolt of 1381. This was during his second time as Lord Mayor. In June of that year, Wat Tyler and his followers marched into south London. Walworth helped defend London Bridge against them.
He was with King Richard II when the king met the rebels at Smithfield. During this meeting, Walworth used his dagger (a type of knife called a baselard) to kill Wat Tyler.
After this, Walworth quickly gathered the city's guards to protect the king. For his brave actions, King Richard II made him a Knight Bachelor. He also gave Walworth a special payment for life. Later, Walworth helped on two teams to bring peace back to the county of Kent.
Later Life and Legacy
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Sir William Walworth passed away in 1385. He was buried in the church of St. Michael, Crooked Lane. He had given a lot of money to this church.
Walworth was a very important member of the Fishmongers Guild. He was often featured in their special parades when a fishmonger became mayor. He became a popular hero in stories. He even appeared in a book called Nine Worthies of London in 1592.
Today, there is a statue of William Walworth on Holborn Viaduct in London. This statue helps people remember him. His wife, Margaret, lived longer than him. She died before the year 1413.
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See also
- List of Sheriffs of the City of London
- List of Lord Mayors of London
- City of London (elections to the Parliament of England)
