The Extent of Resistance and Rebellion (1294-1415)

Welsh Resistance and Uprisings

Resistance to English dominance began soon after the conquest, most notably with the revolt led by Madog ap Llywelyn in 1294-95, which was a direct rebellion against Edward I’s heavy taxation.
Other major uprisings included the Rhys ap Maredudd rebellion in 1287-89, and the revolt led by Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn in Powys. Both were attempts to reassert Welsh sovereignty but were put down by English forces.

Role of Key Figures

The figure of Owain Glyndwr surfaces as the most recognised resistance leader during this period. Declared ‘Prince of Wales’ in 1400, he led a deeply rooted and wide-scale revolt against English rule.
Owain’s rebellion, running from 1400-15, was the last significant Welsh attempt at revolt. Despite initial successes, such as the capture of Conwy Castle, the fire of rebellion waned after 1409.
Key allies such as the Mortimer and Percy families, including Henry ‘Hotspur’ Percy, were critical in bolstering Owain’s rebellion. Their influence swayed many towards the Welsh cause, including the French.

Socio-Economic Factors

Edward I’s implementation of the Statute of Rhuddlan, with its heavy taxation and disregard of Welsh social and legal customs, sparked widespread resentment and fuelled resistance.
Economic hardships, extraction of resources, and the imposition of English law provided a context for rebellion.
Murmurs of revolt in the form of localised resistance were common across the period, illustrating the dissatisfaction of Welsh population with English rule.

Impact on Governance

The persistent resistance forced the English Crown to modify its approach towards Welsh governance. One such change was the establishment of Council of Wales and the Marches in 1471, improving local administration while maintaining control.
These revolts showcased the fragility of the English control over Wales, revealing it took significant measures of force and diplomatic manoeuvres to maintain dominance.
The mixed success of these revolts highlights the Welsh people’s continued aspiration for independence and their resistance to English settlement.

Cultural and Religious Dimensions

Owain Glyndwr’s rebellion found resonance within the ethos of Wales, tapping into national sentiment and the appeal of a free Wales.
Glyndwr’s vision of an independent Wales included plans for two Welsh universities and a separate Welsh church, showing an awareness of the importance of cultural and religious autonomy.
The rebellion period saw the increased use of prophecy and symbolism (for instance, the exploitation of the mythology around King Arthur) which added a religious dimension to the struggle for Welsh independence.