'The Death of Wat Tyler', 1838. Walter Tyler (1360-1381) was a leader of the 1381 Peasants' Revolt in England. He marched a group of rebels from Canterbury to the capital to oppose the institution of a poll tax and demand economic and social reforms. While the brief rebellion enjoyed early success, Tyler was killed by officers loyal to King Richard II during negotiations at Smithfield, London. From The History of England, Vol. 1, by David Hume, Esq. & Hewson Clarke, Esq. [Thomas Kelly, London, 1838]