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Cunedda ap EdernChieftain of the Votadin tribe, founder of the Kingdom of Gwynedd
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Dive |
Content:
- Cunedda Wledig: Founder of the Kingdom of Gwynedd
- Origins and Ancestry
- Conquests in Northern Britain
- The Settlement of Gwynedd
- The Kingdom of Gwynedd
- Legacy
Cunedda Wledig: Founder of the Kingdom of Gwynedd
Cunedda Wledig (Welsh for "supreme lord") was a legendary figure who founded the kingdom of Gwynedd in northern Wales. His story is largely based on literary sources, with limited historical evidence supporting his existence.
Origins and Ancestry
Cunedda is said to have descended from the Gododdin tribe in the region of Manaw Gododdin (modern-day Edinburgh). His family may have been of Roman origin or part of the powerful federate elite of Roman Britain. Cunedda's grandfather, Padarn Beisrudd, bears a Latin name, as does Cunedda's title of Wledig.
Conquests in Northern Britain
Cunedda's early life and activities are shrouded in mystery. According to the poem "Marwnad Cunedda," he fought against Coel Hen, the king of the North, and his conflicts shook the castles of Cair Weir and Cair Liweliud (Carlisle).
The Settlement of Gwynedd
Cunedda is primarily known for leading a significant migration of his tribe, the Votadini, from northern England into Gwynedd, which was inhabited by the Irish. This settlement is believed to have been part of a strategic plan to defend the borderlands of Britain, possibly orchestrated by the Roman emperor Maximus Magnus or the British high king Vortigern.
The Kingdom of Gwynedd
Cunedda's conquest established the kingdom of Gwynedd, with its center at Rhos. He formed a politically advantageous alliance by marrying Gwawl, the daughter of Coel Hen. Their sons, including Ceredig, Rhufon, Dunod, Afloyg, Dogfael, Ederyn, and Meirion, participated in Cunedda's campaigns and later established their own kingdoms or sub-kingdoms within Gwynedd.
Legacy
Cunedda's role in shaping the political landscape of northern Britain is significant. He founded the kingdom of Gwynedd, which became a major power in Wales. His descendants ruled over various parts of the kingdom for centuries, contributing to its cultural and linguistic heritage.
