A series of rebellions in the northern English counties, the most significant of which was led by Robert Aske, a lawyer. He managed, briefly, to weld together the disparate grievances of his socially diverse followers. The main causes of concern were the religious policies of Thomas Cromwell, notably the Dissolution of the Monasteries, although the rebels stressed their loyalty to Henry VIII. Severe retribution followed, as Henry authorized the execution of about 200 of those involved, including Aske.