In 881, three years after the English killed Rhodri, his son Anarawd faced the Mercians at Conwy.
In 878, Rhodri Mawr was killed by the English, along with his son Gwriad. The Annales Cambriae records their deaths at the hands of “the Saxons”, but 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 Happened During the Battle of Conwy?
In 881, the Mercians faced a significant defeat on the banks of the River Conwy. Anarawd, the son of Rhodri and his successor as ruler of Gwynedd, emerged victorious. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae succinctly describes 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 is brief and does not name the commanders or detail the opposing forces. it clearly connects the battle to the theme of vengeance for Rhodri.
Which Sources Support This Historical Narrative?
- Annales Cambriae, English translation, Internet Medieval Sourcebook, Fordham University. The entries relevant to this discussion are marked 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 the Mercian involvement and Anarawd’s triumph.
It is likely that the Mercian army was led by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A subsequent Welsh genealogical source refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, commonly associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Aftermath and Implications of 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 how Anarawd and an unnamed brother severed ties with the Northumbrians to seek support from Alfred. Asser notes that their previous alliance with the Northumbrians had brought Anarawd “no good but harm”. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd with honour, offering gifts and supporting him during his confirmation. Asser indicates that Anarawd then pledged allegiance to Alfred, along with all his people, under terms similar to those agreed upon by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Access More Detailed Information?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, includes entries documenting the deaths of Rhodri and Gwriad, as well as the battle of Conwy, which are 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, detailing Anarawd’s alliance with the Northumbrians and his subsequent submission to Alfred.
- J. E. Lloyd, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, for information on 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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