Ball, John (?-1381), an English priest, was a leader of the agitation for better conditions that led to the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. Ball became unpopular with the Christian Church and was imprisoned several times because he preached social equality. In 1381, he was imprisoned for preaching after being excommunicated. The followers of Wat Tyler, who led the Peasants’ Revolt, released him. After the rebellion collapsed, Ball escaped, but he was later captured. He was executed on July 15, 1381. See also England (History) ; Wat Tyler’s Rebellion .
