Gwladys ferch Dafydd facts for kids

Gwladys ferch Dafydd (who died around 1336) was the daughter of Dafydd ap Gruffydd. Her father was the last independent Prince of Wales, a leader of the Welsh people. Her mother was Elizabeth Ferrers. Gwladys likely spent her early years with her father in England and in Gwynedd, which was a powerful Welsh kingdom.

Who Was Gwladys ferch Dafydd?

Gwladys ferch Dafydd was born into a very important Welsh family. Her father, Dafydd ap Gruffydd, was a prince. This meant he was a powerful ruler in Wales. Gwladys lived during a time when England and Wales were often in conflict.

A Royal Family in Wales

Gwladys's uncle, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, was also a Prince of Wales. When he died in December 1282, Gwladys's father, Dafydd, briefly became the new Prince. This was a very challenging time for the Welsh.

The End of a Prince's Rule

When King Edward I of England heard that Dafydd was the new prince, he quickly gathered his army. King Edward wanted to take control of Wales. Dafydd, his family, and a few loyal friends tried to hide in the forests of Snowdonia. But many Welsh people felt it was a losing battle.

In June 1283, Gwladys was captured. She was with her father, mother, and her brothers, Llywelyn and Owain. Her sisters were also captured.

Gwladys's Life in the Convent

After her capture, Gwladys's father, Dafydd, was put to death. Her brothers were sent to prison. Gwladys, who was still a young child, was sent to live in a special religious community. This was a Gilbertine convent in Sixhills, Lincolnshire, England. A convent is a place where nuns live and dedicate their lives to God.

King Edward I made sure that Gwladys was cared for. He ordered that money be paid every year for her needs at the Sixhills convent. Gwladys spent the rest of her life there. She is believed to have died in 1336. She lived longer than her brothers. Gwladys also had sisters, but their names are not known. King Edward I considered sending them to convents too, but it's not clear if he did.