Rhodri was the son of Merfyn, who, under enigmatic circumstances, assumed the kingship of Gwynedd following the death of Hywel ap Caradog in 825.

[3] This victory garnered international acclaim, reaching the ears of Charles the Bald whose realm Gorm had previously harried.

[6] In 877, a Danish force, aided by their client king Ceolwulf, assailed Anglesey, intent on avenging Gorm's death and securing communication routes with Dublin.

[7] The subsequent year marked Rhodri's return from Irish exile, winning a battle against the Vikings to retake Anglesey.

[10] Subsequently, Anarawd and Rhodri's other sons managed to reclaim Ceredigion and eventually extended their rule to the rest of Dyfed.