Examine the reasons for, and the impact of, the Knights’ Revolt in Germany.

The question requires that candidates examine the reasons for, and the impact of, the Knights’ Revolt in Germany. As reasons, candidates may refer to the fragile economic situation of many knights who suffered a decline in the value of their lands; they could not compete with the growth of trade and industries in the cities; and suffered from innovations in military tactics that lessened their status. They resented the growing power of princes and the introduction of new codes inspired by Roman law that were disadvantageous for many of them. Candidates may also address the unsuccessful attempt to improve the knights’ representation in the Reichstag, the banning of private warfare, and the rejection of their right to plunder Roman Catholic prelates as reasons for the rebellion. After their defeat and as impacts of the revolt candidates may examine the situation of many knights who had their castles confiscated, their imposition of heavy taxes on peasants, and the influence the Knights’ Revolt had on the peasant’s refusal to pay church tithes. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the reasons for, and the impact of, the Knights Revolt in Germany.