What was the role of the noblemen in Owain Glyndwr's revolt Essay

What was the role of the noblemen in Owain Glyndwr's revolt - Essay Example In1277, Edward I invaded Wales and after a fierce battle defeated them. He immediately set out to safeguard his dominance by constructing a ring of strong impregnable castles all around his dominion. This area became the power seat of the English and was designed in such a way so as to subjugate and intimidate the Welsh people. After a century had passed England was ruled by Richard the II. The domination exercised by the English with their restrictive land and tax policies became too much of a burden for the people of Wales and they chafed under the English yoke. According to the myths and legends of the Welsh, it was proclaimed that a national leader and redeemer would emerge from among them and so they faithfully prayed for his coming. This man would be the chosen one to stand up and fight against the English domination and restore the long awaited independence of the Welsh once again. Fortunately for them, there emerged a leader in Owain Glyndwr from amongst the shambles and struggles of the country. At the beginning of the 15th century, the Welsh put their faith in the charismatic leadership of Glyndwr even though England was endowed with a strong and massive army. The Welsh were successful in defeating England and drove them out of their land. The Welsh enjoyed their independence which lasted for a very short while. Since the 19th century, there was a resurgence of nationalism in Wales and hence the exploits of Owain Glyndwr was praise worthy. Glyndwr on the other hand did not seem the right candidate to don the cloak of a freedom fighter. Glyndwr, enjoyed all the trappings of a wealthy and privileged life as one of the great and powerful lords in Wales. This was due to his parentage that dates back to the year 1354 when he was born into and upper – class family having descended on his father’s side from the princes of Powys and on his mother’s side he inherited the lands of Rhys ap