Midland Revolt

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The Midland Revolt was a popular uprising which occurred in the Midlands of England in 1607. Beginning in late April in Northamptonshire, in Haselbech, Pytchley and Rushton, it spread to Warwickshire and Leicestershire in May. The riots were a protest against the enclosure of common land^[1] and drew considerable support, led by "Captain Pouch", otherwise John Reynolds, a tinker said to be from Desborough, Northamptonshire.^[1] He claimed authority from the King to destroy enclosures and promised to protect protesters with the contents of his pouch, carried by his side, which would keep them from harm.^[1] He urged them to use no violence in their efforts to destroy the enclosures. Three thousand were recorded at Hillmorton, Warwickshire and 5000 at Cotesbach, Leicestershire.^[1] A curfew was imposed in Leicester, for fear its citizens would stream out to join the riots. They pulled down a gibbet erected there as a warning. It was also during this period that the term 'leveller' was first used.