In 881, three years following Rhodri’s death at the hands of the English, his son Anarawd engaged 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”, although 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 attributes responsibility for Rhodri’s demise 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 on the banks of the River Conwy. J. E. Lloyd identifies Rhodri’s son Anarawd, who took over as ruler of Gwynedd, as the one who claimed victory. 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 does not name the commanders or specify the opposing forces. It does, however, clearly connect the battle to the theme of vengeance for Rhodri.
Which Historical Sources Provide Insight into This Event?
- Annales Cambriae, English translation, Internet Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University. The pertinent entries are labelled 877 and 880 in this translation.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source offers the dates 878 and 881, as well as insights into the Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
It is likely that the Mercian army was led by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A later Welsh genealogical account refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, who is often associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Implications of Anarawd’s Victory?
The triumph at Conwy did not bring an end to Anarawd’s engagements with external powers. In his work Life of King Alfred, written in 893, Asser recounts how Anarawd and an unnamed brother severed their connections with the Northumbrians and sought assistance from Alfred. Asser highlights that their prior alliance with the Northumbrians had resulted in “no good but harm” for Anarawd. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd with honour, offering him gifts and serving as his sponsor during his confirmation. Asser notes that Anarawd subsequently pledged loyalty to Alfred alongside all his people, under terms similar to those established by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Access Additional Resources?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, contains entries documenting the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad, as well as the battle of Conwy, labelled as 877 and 880 in this version, which differ from the 878 and 881 dates mentioned here.
- Asser, Life of King Alfred, translated by Albert S. Cook, chapter 80, detailing Anarawd’s alliance with the Northumbrians and his later submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, providing insights into Anarawd’s succession, his victory at Conwy, and his relationships 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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