In 881, three years after Rhodri’s death at the hands of the English, his son Anarawd faced the Mercians at Conwy.
In 878, Rhodri Mawr was killed by the English, alongside his son Gwriad. The Annales Cambriae documents their deaths at the hands of “the Saxons”, yet it does not specify where this occurred. Documented: Annales Cambriae, death entry labelled 877 in the linked translation; dated 878 by J. E. Lloyd Historian J. E. Lloyd attributes Rhodri’s death to the Mercians. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Happened During the Battle of Conwy?
In 881, the Mercians suffered a significant defeat along the banks of the River Conwy. J. E. Lloyd identifies Anarawd, Rhodri’s son and successor as the ruler of Gwynedd, as the victor of this engagement. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae succinctly records this pivotal event:
The battle of Conwy. Vengeance for Rhodri at God’s hand.
Documented: Annales Cambriae, Conwy entry labelled 880 in the linked translation; battle dated 881 by J. E. Lloyd
This concise entry omits the names of the commanders and does not detail the opposing forces. it clearly associates the battle with the theme of vengeance for Rhodri.
What Historical Sources Provide Insight into This Event?
- Annales Cambriae, English translation, Internet Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University. The pertinent entries are identified as 877 and 880 in this translation.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source offers dates 878 and 881, along with valuable insights regarding Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
The command of the Mercian army was likely held by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A later Welsh genealogical account refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, a name often linked with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Outcomes and Repercussions Following the Battle?
The victory at Conwy did not mark the end of Anarawd’s dealings with external powers. Asser, in his Life of King Alfred composed in 893, recounts that Anarawd, alongside an unnamed brother, severed their alliance with the Northumbrians to seek assistance from Alfred. Asser notes that their previous partnership with the Northumbrians had brought Anarawd “no good but harm”. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd with honour, presenting him with gifts and serving as his sponsor during his confirmation. Asser indicates that Anarawd pledged allegiance to Alfred, along with all his people, under terms similar to those agreed by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Explore More About This Historical Context?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, includes entries documenting the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad, as well as the battle of Conwy, labelled 877 and 880 in this version, differing from the 878 and 881 dates referenced here.
- Asser, Life of King Alfred, translated by Albert S. Cook, chapter 80, which details Anarawd’s alliance with the Northumbrians and his eventual submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for comprehensive information on Anarawd’s succession, his victory at Conwy, and his relations with neighbouring powers.
- Thomas Jones Pierce, “Rhodri Mawr”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, offering an overview of Rhodri’s reign and dynasty, with his death dated to 877.
The post Vengeance for Rhodri: Conwy’s Historic Battle Unfolds appeared first on Limits Of Strategy.
