Aelfgar's exile and return (mar 30, 1055 – nov 30, 1055)
Description:
Aelfgar fled in the first instance to Ireland, where he bolstered his own military household by hiring a fleet of eighteen mercenary ships. From there he sailed back across the Irish Sea in order to seek the assistance of Gruffudd ap Llywelyn, king of the whole of Wales since a bloody victory over his southern rival earlier in the year.
As recently as 1052, Gruffudd had led a devastating raid across the English border, and at the start of his career in 1039 he had been responsible for the death of Aelfgar's uncle, Eadwine.
In late October 1055, their combined forces crossed the border into Herefordshire, where they defeated local levies led by Earl Ralph and sacked the city of Hereford.
When a larger English army was subsequently assembled against them, the invaders wisely withdrew, leaving its commander, earl Harold, with nothing to do apart from ringing Hereford's charred remains with an improved set of defences.
At length, Harold took it upon himself to negotiate and terms were agreed. He was restored to all of his possessions.
The following year, when further Welsh victories meant that similarly favourable terms had to be granted to Gruffudd, negotiations were led by Harold and Earl Leofric, Aelfgar's father, suggesting the families had buried the hatchet.
Added to timeline:
11th Century
Events leading up to 1066 and beyond
Date:
