Bledric ap Custennin facts for kids
Bledric ap Custennin was an important ruler in ancient Dumnonia, which is now part of the English West Country. He lived during the 500s and early 600s. People sometimes called him by other names like Blederic or Bledrys.
Contents
Life and Rule
Bledric's Role as a Ruler
It's a bit tricky to know exactly what Bledric's job was because old Welsh stories call him different things. Sometimes he's called a "King," other times a "Duke," or even a "Prince" of Devonshire and Cornwall. Around the year 603, he was known as the Duke of Cornwall. He was also a friend and helper to kings in northern Wales.
The Battle of Bangor-is-Coed
One of the most detailed stories about Bledric comes from an old book called Historia Regum Britanniae by Geoffrey of Monmouth. In this book, Bledric is listed as one of the legendary Dukes of Cornwall. He was the leader of the British armies who fought together. These armies included King Cadvan of North Wales and King Margadud of South Wales.
They fought a big battle at Bangor-is-Coed against the army of Æthelfrith of Northumbria. Æthelfrith had just killed many monks. In the battle, Bledric managed to wound Æthelfrith. He also helped defeat Æthelfrith's army, called the Angles. Sadly, Bledric himself was killed during this battle.
Family
Bledric's Relatives
Bledric was one of three sons of King Constantine. His father died around the year 560. His brothers were Gerren rac Denau and Domuel. Bledric might have become king after his brother Gerren. He also had a sister who married Peibio Clafrog, who was a king in South Wales.
Bledric may have had two sons. One son, named Clemen, is thought to have become ruler after him. Another son, named Blethyn, is mentioned in some old writings.
Death
Bledric's Final Battle
An old book called Historie of Cambria (History of Wales) tells us more about Bledric's death. It says that Bledric was one of the British leaders who died fighting King Æthelfrith of Northumbria. King Æthelberht of Kent was also involved in this battle.
The battle happened around the year 613 at Bangor on the River Dee. Bledric was called the Prince of Devonshire and Cornwall. It is said that by bravely giving his life, he helped his allies win the battle. His sons later went on to rule in North Wales.
Literature
Bledric in Old Stories
Bledric might also be mentioned in some old Welsh stories called Welsh Triads. He is also mentioned in another old book called Llyfr Baglan. This book says he was a Duke of Cornwall. It also confirms he was the son of Constantine, a High King of Britain, and the father of Clement (or Clemen), who was also a Duke of Cornwall.
