Michael An Gof and Thomas Flamank were the leaders of the Cornish Rebellion, which erupted in 1497 in response to the imposition of taxes to fund King Henry VII's campaigns in Scotland. The rebellion was fueled by broader grievances regarding economic hardship and a sense of alienation from central English authority. An Gof was a blacksmith from Cornwall, and Flamank a lawyer, both of whom rallied the Cornish populace to rise up against perceived injustices. They marched toward London, gathering support along the way, and at its height, their forces posed a significant challenge to the king's troops.

However, the rebellion suffered a critical blow at the Battle of Deptford Bridge, where the royal forces ultimately defeated the insurgents. Following their defeat, An Gof and Flamank were captured and put on trial for treason. Their execution took place at Tyburn, a site notoriously used for public hangings, where they faced their deaths with defiance, urging their fellow countrymen to continue fighting for their rights. Their execution served not only as a punishment but also as a powerful warning against rebellion.

The legacies of An Gof and Flamank extended beyond their executions. They became symbols of resistance against oppressive rule, and their cause resonated with the marginalized populations in Cornwall and beyond. Their actions reflected the broader social and political tensions of the late 15th century, and their stories were recounted in folklore, ensuring that their sacrifices were remembered long after their deaths.