When Was William Walworth Lord Mayor?

William Walworth became the lord mayor in 1374 and was serving his second term of office during the famous Peasants Revolt of 1381. He is known for his encounter with Wat Tyler one of the leaders of the Peasants' Revolt.

Due to heavy taxation and restriction on their wages, the peasants and artisans were discontented. They decided to take matters into their own hands and revolted. They entered south London along with Tyler. Walworth was in charge of defending the London Bridge. The King agreed to meet up with the rebels to sort out their differences and Walworth was with Richard II at the meeting at Smithfield. The actual reasons and circumstances are largely speculation but what is known is that Walworth killed Tyler. He also was responsible for the defenses and the 7000 strong militia that the Nobles managed to pull together to quell the rebellion. He was rewarded by the king and received a knighthood and a pension. The flag of London then sported an image of the dagger that he used to slay Tyler. He died in 1385.

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