History Daily The Execution of the Last Prince of Wales
Oct 3, 2025
Dive into the dramatic tale of Dafydd ap Gruffydd, the last native Prince of Wales. Discover his audacious midnight attack on Hawarden Castle, igniting Edward I's fury and invasion plans. Unpack the complexities of Welsh resistance against Norman rule and Dafydd's shifting allegiances. The podcast details a thrilling ambush that invigorated Welsh spirits and the tragic deception that led to Llewellyn's downfall. Conclude with the harrowing fate of Dafydd and the consolidation of English power in Wales.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Spark At Hawarden Castle
- Dafydd ap Gruffydd launched a surprise attack on Hawarden Castle to push the English out of Welsh lands.
- His action reignited Welsh resistance and provoked King Edward I to invade Wales.
Victory At The Bridge Of Boats
- Llewelyn and Dafydd ambushed English troops crossing a bridge of boats, causing heavy English losses.
- The victory convinced more Welsh lords to join the rebellion against King Edward I.
Betrayal By The Mortimers
- Llewelyn was betrayed by the Mortimers and ambushed, leading to his death and mutilation.
- Dafydd then proclaimed himself Prince but was hunted, betrayed, and captured in June 1283.
