Pilgrimage of Grace

Timeline

1. 1536Louth, Lincolnshire · LincolnshireIn early October 1536, people in Louth, Lincolnshire rose up over the dissolution of monasteries and Reformation policies, quickly spreading to Yorkshire. Lawyer Robert Aske and others organized the Pilgrimage of Grace, calling on pilgrims to wear badges and assemble peacefully; tens of thousands of northerners joined, occupying cities such as York.
2. 1536Pontefract · YorkshireThe rebels drew up and submitted twenty-four demands at Pontefract and elsewhere, chiefly including restoration of papal authority, halting the dissolution of monasteries, dismissal of Thomas Cromwell and reformist bishops, summoning Parliament to consider religious affairs, and safeguarding northern traditional rights. Henry VIII ostensibly accepted negotiations, promising a Parliament at York and a general pardon, inducing most pilgrims to disperse home.
3. 1536York · YorkshireIn December 1536 Henry VIII broke his pardon promise, and the Duke of Norfolk led royal forces to reoccupy the north. The remaining rebels were quickly subdued, Robert Aske and other leaders executed for treason, and York and other places severely purged. The failure consolidated England's Reformation and centralization, but northern Catholic traditions and local discontent persisted for a long time.