Caradocus facts for kids
Caradocus (also spelled Karadawc in Middle Welsh) was an important leader in ancient Britain, according to old stories. He is mainly known from a book called Historia regum Britanniae (which means History of the Kings of Britain), written by Geoffrey of Monmouth. This book tells a legendary history of Britain's kings. Caradocus was a powerful leader, like a duke, in the region of Cornwall. He served under King Octavius and later under Emperor Magnus Maximus.
Caradocus and King Octavius
Caradocus was the Duke of Cornwall during the time of King Octavius. He played a big part in an important decision for Britain. Caradocus suggested to King Octavius that his daughter should marry Maximus. This marriage would help unite Britain with the powerful city of Rome.
King Octavius liked this idea. So, Caradocus sent his own son, Mauricius, to Rome to deliver the message to Maximus. When Maximus arrived in Britain near Southampton, not everyone was happy. Conan Meriadoc, who was the king's nephew, almost attacked Maximus. Luckily, Caradocus arrived and helped make peace. After this, King Octavius gave up his kingship to Maximus and retired. Caradocus then supported Maximus as the new ruler.
Caradocus's Role Under Maximus
Caradocus continued to be a key leader in Cornwall under Emperor Maximus. Geoffrey of Monmouth's stories suggest that Caradocus was a ruler of Cornwall during this time. He passed away within the first five years of Maximus's reign.
After Caradocus's death, Maximus left Britain to go to Gaul (which is modern-day France). Geoffrey of Monmouth says that Maximus left Caradocus's brother, Dionotus, in charge of the kingdom. Dionotus then became the King of Cornwall.
Other Stories About Caradocus
Some other old writings also mention Caradocus. A Cornish historian named Richard Carew wrote about Caradocus as the Duke of Cornwall. Carew even mentioned an older source that claimed Caradocus was given the job by King Octavius to help start the University of Cambridge in the year 443. This is a different story from Geoffrey of Monmouth's account. Carew also wrote that Caradocus was later followed by another leader named Gorlois around the year 500.
The Welsh Triads, which are collections of old Welsh stories, also talk about a leader named Caradoc (or Caradawg Vreichvras). This Caradoc was known as a chief elder for the famous King Arthur at a place called Celliwig in Cornwall. It's possible that Geoffrey of Monmouth used this legendary Caradoc as inspiration for his character, Caradocus.
