Justiciar of South Wales facts for kids
The Justiciar of South Wales was an important royal official in the Principality of Wales a long time ago, during the Middle Ages. You might also hear them called the Justiciar of West Wales. This person was in charge of the southern part of Wales for the king.
What was a Justiciar?
A Justiciar was a very important official who helped the king or queen rule. This title was used in England and Scotland during the Middle Ages. It came to Wales in the 1200s.
Wales and King Edward I
In 1282, the Principality of Wales was defeated by Edward I of England. King Edward then took control of Wales. He made it part of his own lands, but it didn't become part of the Kingdom of England right away.
In 1284, King Edward I created new rules for how Wales would be governed. These rules were written down in something called the Statute of Rhuddlan. As part of these new rules, several royal officials were appointed. One of these important officials was the Justiciar of South Wales.
What did the Justiciar do?
The Justiciar of South Wales was based in a town called Carmarthen. Their main job was to manage the southern part of the king's lands in Wales. They acted as the king's main representative in that area.
The Justiciar was responsible for the counties of Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire. They had some power to choose other officials to help them run things in their territory.
Famous Justiciars
Here are some of the people who held the title of Justiciar of South Wales:
