Anarawd ap Rhodri facts for kids

Anarawd ap Rhodri (died c. 916) was an important king in early Welsh history. He ruled the Kingdom of Gwynedd in North Wales. People sometimes called him "King of the Britons." He lived from the late 800s until about 916 AD.

Anarawd's Family and Kingdom

Anarawd's father was Rhodri the Great, a very powerful ruler. Rhodri had taken control of most of northern Wales. When Rhodri died around 878 AD, his lands were divided. This was done according to old Welsh law.

Dividing the Lands

Anarawd was the oldest son. He received the main estate at Aberffraw. He also became the King of Gwynedd. His brothers, Cadell and Merfyn, also got large areas of land. These areas included the kingdoms of Ceredigion and Powys. Rhodri's fourth son, Tudwal the Lame, was too young or not considered strong enough for a share at first.

Working Together and Facing Challenges

The brothers often worked closely to protect their lands. They fought against other smaller kingdoms in Wales. They also faced threats from outside Wales.

Fighting Off Invaders

Around 881 AD, Æthelred of Mercia invaded Gwynedd. The Welsh fought back and won a big battle at Cymryd. This battle is known as the Battle of the Conwy. The Welsh called their victory Dial Rhodri. This means "God's vengeance for Rhodri." It showed they believed God was helping them get revenge for their father's death. Tudwal, Anarawd's younger brother, fought in this battle. However, he was injured and was later judged unable to rule.

New Alliances

After some time, Cadell started to challenge his brother Merfyn. This led to the rise of Hywel the Good later on. Anarawd, meanwhile, looked for new allies.

Danes and Saxons

Anarawd first made a deal with the Danish king in York. He hoped this would protect him from more attacks by Mercia. But this alliance did not work out well. So, Anarawd decided to make a new agreement. He visited Alfred the Great, the King of Wessex, in his court.

Alfred treated Anarawd with respect and gave him gifts. King Alfred even stood as a witness when Anarawd was confirmed in his faith. Anarawd used his new Saxon allies to help him. Around 894 AD, they helped him push back a raid by his former Danish allies. The next year, they helped him attack Cadell's lands in Ceredigion. Around 902 AD, Anarawd also successfully defended Anglesey from an attack by Danes from Dublin.

Anarawd died around 916 AD. His eldest son, Idwal the Bald, became the next king.

See also

• Kings of Wales family trees