Wyatt's Rebellion

Timeline

1. 1554Kent · KentThomas Wyatt openly raised forces in Kent, declaring opposition to the marriage of Mary to the Spanish prince Philip, fearing foreign control of England and the restoration of Catholic oppression. The uprising quickly spread across the southeast, with Protestants and local gentry joining, forming a direct military challenge to the Tudor government.
2. 1554London's southern gate (Southwark) · LondonWyatt led about seven thousand rebels from the southeast toward London, arriving at Southwark on the south bank of the Thames on February 7. Queen Mary steadied spirits in the Tower of London, ordered the bridge section of London Bridge dismantled to prevent the rebels crossing, and mustered loyal troops to defend the city.
3. 1554London · LondonWhen Wyatt attempted to enter the city via another crossing, he was ambushed by royal troops and the rebels scattered. On February 11, Wyatt surrendered near Ludgate and was arrested, subsequently tried and executed for treason. The rebellion's failure convinced Mary's government that potential rivals to the throne such as Jane Grey must be eliminated.