Cadell ap Rhodri facts for kids

Cadell ap Rhodri (born around 850, died 909 AD) was an important Welsh ruler. He was the King of Seisyllwg, a smaller kingdom located in southwestern Wales. Cadell ruled from about 872 until his death. His actions helped shape the future of Wales.

Cadell's Early Life and Rise to Power

Cadell was the second son of a very powerful king named Rhodri the Great. Rhodri ruled the large kingdom of Gwynedd. Cadell's mother was Angharad. She was a princess from Seisyllwg, the kingdom Cadell would later rule.

Becoming King of Seisyllwg

In 872, something important happened. Angharad's brother, Gwgon, was the King of Seisyllwg. He sadly drowned and had no children to take his place. This meant there was no direct heir to the throne.

Because of this, Cadell's father, King Rhodri, stepped in. Rhodri became like a manager or "steward" of Seisyllwg. Even though he couldn't legally claim the throne for himself, he was able to make his son, Cadell, the new king. This was a clever way to expand his family's power.

Expanding the Kingdom

Cadell ruled Seisyllwg for many years. He worked closely with his own son, Hywel Dda. Together, Cadell and Hywel made their kingdom stronger.

Around 904 to 905, they took control of another nearby kingdom called Dyfed. This was a big step. Hywel Dda then became the king of Dyfed.

When Cadell died in 909, Hywel Dda took over Seisyllwg as well. Hywel then ruled both kingdoms together. This new combined kingdom was later known as Deheubarth.

Cadell also had two other sons, named Morgan and Cadwgan.

See also

• Kings of Wales family trees