In 881, three years following the death of Rhodri 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 records their deaths at the hands of “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 attributes Rhodri’s death to the Mercians. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Transpired 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 victorious leader. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae succinctly captures 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 entry does not mention the commanders or detail the opposing forces. it firmly ties 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. Relevant entries are labelled 877 and 880 in this translation.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source details the dates 878 and 881, along with insights into Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
It is likely that Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians, commanded the Mercian army. A subsequent Welsh genealogical source refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, who is commonly associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Implications of Anarawd’s Victory?
The triumph at Conwy did not conclude Anarawd’s dealings with external powers. Asser, in his Life of King Alfred written in 893, recounts how Anarawd and an unnamed brother severed their ties with the Northumbrians to seek support from Alfred. Asser notes that their earlier alliance with the Northumbrians had brought Anarawd “no good but harm”. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd honourably, presenting him with gifts and acting as his patron during his confirmation. Asser indicates that Anarawd pledged loyalty to Alfred along with all of his people, under terms similar to those agreed by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Discover Additional Information?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, which includes entries that document the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad, as well as the battle of Conwy, labelled as 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, detailing Anarawd’s alliance with the Northumbrians and his eventual submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for insights on Anarawd’s succession, his victory at Conwy, and 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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