Henry IV, Part 1 is a history play by William Shakespeare believed to have been written no later than 1597. It depicts the span of history from Hotspur's battle at Homildon in 1402 to the defeat of the rebels at Shrewsbury in 1403. The play examines King Henry IV's troubled reign as he faces rebellions from the Percys and their allies. Meanwhile, his son Hal wastes time with Sir John Falstaff and other low companions in Eastcheap, though he asserts he will soon assume his royal responsibilities through noble exploits. The revolts give Hal the chance to reconcile with his father and prove himself in battle against the rebel leader Hotspur.