In 881, three years following Rhodri’s death inflicted by 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 it does not specify the location. Documented: Annales Cambriae, death entry labelled 877 in the linked translation; dated 878 by J. E. Lloyd Historian J. E. Lloyd assigns Rhodri’s death to the Mercians. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
What Happened During the Battle at 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 victor in this battle. Documented: J. E. Lloyd, Dictionary of Welsh Biography, “Anarawd ap Rhodri”
The Annales Cambriae records this pivotal event succinctly:
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 brief record does not name the commanders or detail the opposing forces. it clearly associates the battle with the theme of vengeance for Rhodri.
Which Sources Contribute to This Historical Narrative?
- 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.
It is probable that the Mercian army was led by Æthelred, Lord of the Mercians. A subsequent Welsh genealogical account refers to the commander as “Edryd Long-Hair”, commonly associated with Æthelred. Inferred
What Were the Implications Following 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 written in 893, recounts how Anarawd and an unnamed brother ended their alliance with the Northumbrians to seek assistance from Alfred. Asser notes that their previous partnership with the Northumbrians had brought Anarawd “no good but harm”. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Alfred welcomed Anarawd with honour, presenting him with gifts and acting as his sponsor during his confirmation. Asser mentions that Anarawd then pledged loyalty to Alfred along with all his people, under terms similar to those agreed by Æthelred and the Mercians. Documented: Asser, Life of King Alfred, chapter 80
Where Can You Access Additional Information?
- Annales Cambriae (Annals of Wales), English translation, 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 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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