Executed in 1381 for his role in the first great rebellion in English history, John Ball is today remembered by the people of the town, right on the place where he was tried for his crimes. The rebellion, in response to low pay and the introduction of an unpopular poll tax, was ultimately unsuccessful, but nearly caused the unseating of King Richard II. The monarch was present in St Albans to witness Ball being hung, drawn and quartered.

Blue plaques are put up all over Britain and Ireland, to mark people and historic events that took place in specific locations. They’ve been around for over a century and, although some bodies have tried to, they aren’t regulated. Anyone can place a blue plaque on their home as a small act of rebellion, inspiring some funny copycat efforts over the years.