Llywelyn ap Maredudd facts for kids
Llywelyn ap Maredudd was a Welsh prince who lived a long time ago, in the middle of the 1200s. He was the last ruler of a place called Meirionydd in Wales. Llywelyn belonged to a powerful family known as the House of Gwynedd. His father was Maredudd ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd ap Cynan. Llywelyn was also a direct descendant of a famous Welsh leader named Owain Gwynedd.
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Early Life and Family
Llywelyn ap Maredudd was born into a noble family in Wales. His family, the House of Gwynedd, was very important in Welsh history. They were known for ruling different parts of Wales. Llywelyn's great-great-grandfather was Owain Gwynedd, a powerful prince. Owain's son, Prince Cynan, was also a Lord of Meirionydd. This means Llywelyn came from a long line of rulers in that area.
A Time of Conflict
The 13th century was a time of many changes in Wales. Different Welsh princes often fought among themselves. They also had conflicts with English lords. Llywelyn ap Maredudd lived during these challenging times. He had to make choices about who to support.
The Battle of Bryn Derwin
In 1255, Llywelyn ap Maredudd joined a battle called Bryn Derwin. He sided with two brothers, Owain Goch and Dafydd Gwynedd. They were fighting against their other brother, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. This Llywelyn ap Gruffudd later became known as the last native Prince of Wales. Sadly, Llywelyn ap Maredudd and his allies lost the battle.
Exile and Return
After the defeat at Bryn Derwin, Llywelyn ap Maredudd had to leave Wales. He went to live in England for several years. This was a common result for those who lost in battles between princes. He stayed in exile until June 1262. At that time, he made peace with Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the Prince of Wales. This meant he could return home.
His Final Days
Llywelyn ap Maredudd did not live long after returning to Wales. He died the very next year, in 1263. He was killed on April 27 while fighting. He was battling against English Marcher Lords. These were powerful English nobles who controlled lands along the border with Wales.
Llywelyn's Sons
Llywelyn ap Maredudd had several sons. Their names were:
- Madog ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd
- Dafydd ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd
- Llywelyn ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd
- Maredudd ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd
His oldest son, Madog, became a leader himself. He led a rebellion against English rule later on. This uprising happened between 1294 and 1295. Madog had two sons, but what happened to them is not known.
