Llywelyns

Llywelyns refers to people named Llywelyn, a Welsh given name, and to the historical dynasty associated with Gwynedd in medieval Wales. In Welsh usage, the plural form can denote multiple individuals bearing the name or refer to the family lineage of those rulers. The name itself is of Welsh origin, commonly interpreted as meaning something like “leader” or “prince,” and has been borne by several important rulers in Welsh history.

Two principal figures are most often associated with the term: Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, known as Llywelyn the Great, who ruled Gwynedd from around 1195 and worked to extend Welsh influence and consolidate power among Welsh princes, while maintaining relations with England. His grandson, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, called Llywelyn the Last, reigned from 1258 to 1282 and strove to unite Wales under native rule against English encroachment. His death in 1282 marked the effective end of independent Welsh princes in most of Wales and preceded the conquest of Wales by Edward I.

In modern usage, the name continues as a personal given name and occasionally as a surname. The term “Llywelyns” is typically encountered in historical or genealogical contexts.

See also: Llywelyn, House of Gwynedd, Welsh princes.