The Rebecca Riots occurred in Wales between AD 1838 and 1844. They began as a protest against the turnpike roads and their hated tolls. Poor farmers and other local people, particularly in places like Carmarthenshire, had to pass through and pay at many toll gates to get to markets. Toll ‘farmers’, who collected the money, were also hated.

The well-organised riots took place at night. The rioters attacked toll houses and gates. As a disguise, they blackened their faces and wore women’s clothes. During the attack, the leader would take the role of ‘Rebecca’ and the others would act as ‘her’ daughters or children. The name came from a biblical reference: ‘the seed of Rebecca shall possess the gates of her enemies’ (Genesis 24:60).

The attacks were extended to other hated targets like workhouses – Carmarthen Workhouse was destroyed in 1843 – and the imposition of tithes (annual payments to the church). The riots occurred at a time of general national unrest and economic depression. The government used troops, the police and even spies to try to halt them, but they only ceased when an Act of Parliament was passed in 1844 reducing tolls.