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Llywelyn Bren; Llywelyn ap Gruffudd ap Rhys , rebel leader

Died: 1318   

Llywelyn was an influential land-holder in Glamorgan. He rebelled against the conditions in Glamorgan following the death of the last Clare earl of Gloucester and lord of Glamorgan in 1314 and Edward II's subsequent appointment of custodians who deprived Bren and others of their lands. The revolt was ultimately quelled by Earl Humphrey of Hereford (lord of Brecon) and Llywelyn was hanged, drawn and quartered in 1318.

Llywelyn's revolt began on 28 January 1316 with an attack on Caerphilly Castle but was quashed by Humphrey (VII) de Bohun, earl of Hereford, the Mortimers and other Marcher lords. Llywelyn and his family were duly imprisoned in the Tower of London and his property seized. The younger Hugh Dispenser dealt with him harshly and condemned him to death. Llywelyn was tried at Cardiff Castle and condemned to death - he was hanged, drawn and quartered in 1318 and buried in the Grey Friars at Cardiff. In February 1327 Llywelyn's sons were formally repossessed of their father's lands by the government of Isabella and Mortimer.

Sites associated with this person

Llantarnam Abbey, Torfaen

Bibliographical sources

Web links (open in new window)

Tout, T. F., revised Griffiths, R. A., Oxford Dictionary of National Biography online - Llywelyn Bren (View website)


 
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