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 records their deaths attributed to “the Saxons,” although the specific location remains unspecified. Documented: Annales Cambriae, death entry labelled 877 in the linked translation; dated 878 by J. E. Lloyd Historian J. E. Lloyd links Rhodri’s demise to the Mercians. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Were the Events of the Battle?
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 ruler of Gwynedd, as the victor. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae succinctly captures this pivotal moment:
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 omits the names of the commanders and does not detail the opposing forces. it clearly connects the battle to the theme of vengeance 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 translation.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography. This source provides the dates 878 and 881, along with insights into Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s victory.
The Mercian army was likely led by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A subsequent Welsh genealogical record refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair,” commonly linked to Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Aftermath and Implications of the Battle?
Anarawd’s victory at Conwy did not mark the end of his dealings with external powers. Asser, in his Life of King Alfred written in 893, recounts how Anarawd and an unnamed brother cut ties with the Northumbrians to seek support from Alfred. Asser remarks that their previous alliance with the Northumbrians brought Anarawd “no good but harm.” Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd honourably, offering gifts and acting as his patron during his confirmation. Asser indicates that Anarawd pledged allegiance to Alfred along with all his people, under similar terms to those agreed by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Explore More on This Topic?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, includes entries documenting 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 subsequent submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for insights into Anarawd’s succession, his victory at Conwy, and relations with neighbouring powers.
- Thomas Jones Pierce, “Rhodri Mawr”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, providing an overview of Rhodri’s reign and dynasty, with his death dated to 877.
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