On 9 October 1536, rebels in Lincolnshire sent a petition to Henry VIII opposing his government’s religious and political policies. Known as the Lincoln Articles, the document followed more than a week of unrest that had brought thousands of people into Lincoln.

The rebellion began at Louth on 1 October. The closure of smaller monasteries sparked widespread opposition, particularly among people who depended on religious houses for help and work. Royal investigations and rumours about the confiscation of church valuables increased local fears. People also resented Thomas Cromwell, the king’s chief minister.

The protest spread through Lincolnshire, including Horncastle and Caistor. At Horncastle, two officials associated with the government were killed. The movement attracted townspeople, clergy and members of the local gentry. Thousands of rebels gathered at Lincoln.

The petition opposed the suppression of religious houses and described the consequences for local communities. It criticised Cromwell and other royal advisers and called for changes to the king’s council. The rebels also objected to the Statute of Uses, which affected land ownership and inheritance.

Despite challenging government policy, the rebels presented themselves as loyal subjects seeking the king’s intervention. They blamed his advisers for the unpopular measures.

Henry rejected their demands. On 11 October, the king sent a royal response to Lincoln ordering the rebels to return home and warning of punishment for continued resistance. The government also prepared forces under the Duke of Suffolk.

The threat of military action helped the rebellion collapse. By mid-October, the rebels in Lincolnshire had dispersed.

A larger rebellion, known as the Pilgrimage of Grace, was developing in Yorkshire. Its supporters also opposed religious changes and the dissolution of monasteries. Henry’s government eventually suppressed the uprisings, and several participants were executed.