Merthyr Rising 1831 marked the violent climax of years of unrest among Merthyr Tydfil's industrial workers demanding wage protection and reform.
Merthyr Rising Beginnings
May 1831 saw coal miners working for William Crawshay riot across Merthyr Tydfil against wage cuts and unemployment. Protests spread to surrounding industrial towns, culminating in the first display of the red flag as workers' revolt symbol.
Riots targeted debtors' courts, destroying records and seized goods. Chant leaders demanded "Caws a bara" (bread and cheese) and "I lawr â'r Brenin" (down with the king).
Merthyr Rising Key Events
June 1st: Rioters persuaded mine workers to strike and join protests. British government deployed Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders to protect key buildings as crowds grew unmanageable.
June 2nd: Led by Lewis (Lewsyn yr Heliwr), protesters demanded bread price cuts at Castle Inn meeting. Rejected demands led to attacks on soldiers, capturing weapons after prolonged fighting.
- 7,000-10,000 workers marched under red flag for 4 days
- Barricades established with guerrilla divisions
- Ambushed 93rd Regiment supply train
- Repulsed cavalry relief forces
- Disarmed Swansea Yeomanry
Merthyr Rising Military Engagements
Rebels controlled Merthyr for 8 days from Penydarren House base. Organized communication networks and paramilitary drills under veteran leadership. Strikes spread to Monmouthshire, Neath, and Swansea Valleys.
Government divided rebel council before June 6th mass gathering. 450 troops dispersed crowds at Waun above Dowlais, effectively ending uprising.
Merthyr Rising Outcome
June 7th: Authorities regained control killing up to 24 rioters. 26 arrested, several transported to Australia. Two death sentences:
- Lewsyn yr Heliwr: Robbery (commuted to life transportation)
- Richard Lewis (Dic Penderyn): Stabbing soldier (executed despite public doubt)
11,000 petitioned Dic Penderyn's release. 1874 deathbed confession and witness retraction suggested miscarriage of justice [attached_file:1].
Merthyr Rising 1831 - Wales Largest Workers Uprising
