Who is John Ball from Crispin: The Cross of Lead and what is their importance?

John Ball is a real historical person. One of the leaders of the Peasant Revolution in 1381, Ball was executed when it failed. In the context of this story, Ball is one of the rebels, who wants to transform the country and bring about revolution. He believes that all people should be free and that taxes and wages should be fair. He also believes that the lords and the Church are corrupt.