In 881, three years after Rhodri’s death at the hands of the English, his son Anarawd confronted the Mercians at Conwy.
In 878, Rhodri Mawr was killed by the English, alongside his son Gwriad. The Annales Cambriae records their deaths attributed to “the Saxons”, though it does not specify the exact location. Documented: Annales Cambriae, death entry labelled 877 in the linked translation; dated 878 by J. E. Lloyd Historian J. E. Lloyd suggests that the Mercians were responsible for Rhodri’s demise. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Transpired During the Battle at Conwy?
In 881, the Mercians faced a significant defeat along the banks of the River Conwy. J. E. Lloyd identifies Anarawd, the successor to Rhodri and ruler of Gwynedd, as the victor of this battle. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae briefly encapsulates 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 succinct entry does not disclose the names of the commanders or the composition of the opposing forces. it unmistakably ties the battle to the theme of retribution for Rhodri.
Which Historical Sources Support This Account?
- Annales Cambriae, English translation, Internet Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University. The relevant entries are labelled 877 and 880 in this version.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source discusses the dates 878 and 881, alongside insights into Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
It is probable that Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians, led the Mercian army. A later Welsh genealogical record refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, often associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Aftermath and Implications of the Battle?
The victory at Conwy did not conclude Anarawd’s dealings with external forces. Asser, in his Life of King Alfred written in 893, recounts that Anarawd and an unnamed brother ended their alliance with the Northumbrians to seek support from Alfred. Asser mentions that their previous relationship with the Northumbrians 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 notes that Anarawd pledged loyalty to Alfred along with all his people, under conditions similar to those previously agreed upon by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Access Additional Historical Information?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, features entries documenting the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad as well as the battle of Conwy, labelled as 877 and 880 in this translation, 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 relationship with the Northumbrians and his subsequent submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for insights 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.
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