0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- Richard III, the King of England, - was killed in August 1485.
0:00:09 > 0:00:12- Henry Tudor became - King in his place.
0:00:12 > 0:00:14- Did a Welshman kill the old King?
0:00:15 > 0:00:18- As an archaeologist and historian...
0:00:18 > 0:00:21- ..I have a big interest - in this Welshman's story...
0:00:21 > 0:00:24- ..which had been - forgotten by history until now.
0:00:38 > 0:00:40- Bosworth, in the English Midlands.
0:00:41 > 0:00:43- On 22 August 1485...
0:00:43 > 0:00:47- ..one of Britain's most famous - battles happened here.
0:00:47 > 0:00:51- It was a battle that would change - the course of history.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55- If it wasn't for this battle, - Elizabeth Windsor wouldn't be Queen.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59- It's a battle that changed - thousands of lives.
0:00:59 > 0:01:04- Three specifically, - Richard III, the King who died...
0:01:04 > 0:01:07- ..Henry Tudor, - the man who deposed him as King...
0:01:08 > 0:01:13- ..and a Welsh speaker from - the Llandeilo area, Rhys ap Thomas.
0:01:18 > 0:01:21- We'll look at the evidence - that suggests Rhys ap Thomas...
0:01:22 > 0:01:24- ..was responsible - for Richard III's death.
0:01:24 > 0:01:26- Rhys lived to be an old man.
0:01:26 > 0:01:31- At the end of his life, as though - he repented for some things...
0:01:31 > 0:01:34- ..he went to the Greyfriars - in Carmarthen to die.
0:01:36 > 0:01:40- Like many great powers - before and after him...
0:01:40 > 0:01:43- ..there may have been - some things on his mind.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51- "I love the dubbed knight - of Carmarthen
0:01:51 > 0:01:55- "The hawk of the fortress - of gold and wine is loved by all
0:01:56 > 0:01:59- "I have loved Sir Rhys - and why would I not love him?
0:01:59 > 0:02:02- "He is the love - of all the land of the South
0:02:02 > 0:02:06- "I never saw a better man
0:02:06 > 0:02:09- "Nor his equal in his castle"
0:02:09 > 0:02:14- The bard Guto'r Glyn's words to me - were very generous.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- Are the words of bards empty?
0:02:18 > 0:02:22- Is the truth to be found - between the lines?
0:02:24 > 0:02:27- I've lived - for three quarters of a century.
0:02:27 > 0:02:31- I now face the same hell - I created for many.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36- It's easy to be intoxicated - by power and status.
0:02:37 > 0:02:40- Or by tasting - blood and fear in battle.
0:02:42 > 0:02:46- In here, in this little head...
0:02:46 > 0:02:50- ..I feel the sting of sobriety - and its truth.
0:02:51 > 0:02:53- It's like a spear on flesh.
0:03:00 > 0:03:01- Let's head back to Bosworth.
0:03:02 > 0:03:06- By 1485, Richard III had been King - for almost two years.
0:03:06 > 0:03:09- He was 32 years old.
0:03:09 > 0:03:15- The Battle of Bosworth brought - an end to a century of fighting...
0:03:15 > 0:03:18- ..between the House of York - with its white rose...
0:03:19 > 0:03:21- ..and the House of Lancaster - with its red rose.
0:03:22 > 0:03:25- It's hard for us to imagine - this kind of fighting...
0:03:25 > 0:03:27- ..amongst family these days.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31- Power, status and money were - integral parts of being king.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35- Every noble family - wanted a share of that.
0:03:38 > 0:03:41- The question was raised, - who has the right for the crown?
0:03:41 > 0:03:44- This was during - the Wars of the Roses...
0:03:44 > 0:03:47- ..where there was a struggle - for the English crown.
0:03:48 > 0:03:54- A lot of families found it hard - to choose which side to support.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57- If someone were - to make the wrong choice...
0:03:57 > 0:03:59- ..they could pay a terrible price.
0:04:01 > 0:04:05- It's important to remember - that Owain Glyndwr's revolt...
0:04:05 > 0:04:08- ..had a huge effect on England's - relationship with Wales.
0:04:08 > 0:04:11- The revolt ended in 1415.
0:04:11 > 0:04:14- But its memory was very much alive.
0:04:15 > 0:04:19- The Welsh suffered under strict laws - because of the revolt.
0:04:20 > 0:04:22- They were unhappy - with the situation.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28- The failure of that revolt was key.
0:04:29 > 0:04:33- Many families, the nobility - amongst them, and commoners...
0:04:33 > 0:04:37- Both the nobility and commoners - took part in the revolt.
0:04:37 > 0:04:42- They'd come together to fight - for principles and ideals.
0:04:43 > 0:04:47- They wanted to promote one of - their own to Prince of Wales.
0:04:47 > 0:04:53- They wanted a Wales which was - politically independent of England.
0:04:53 > 0:04:59- For a member of the Welsh nobility - to progress in the world...
0:04:59 > 0:05:02- ..he would, - to all intents and purposes...
0:05:02 > 0:05:04- ..have to prove he was English.
0:05:05 > 0:05:09- One family who wanted a taste of - power and freedom in South Wales...
0:05:10 > 0:05:12- ..despite not being - from noble descent...
0:05:12 > 0:05:14- ..was the family of Rhys ap Thomas.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- I'm at Dinefwr Castle placed - on a rock above the Tywi river.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24- The family home - of Sir Rhys ap Thomas.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27- In terms of importance - in Welsh history...
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- ..this is one of the courts - of Lord Rhys, Rhys ap Gruffydd.
0:05:31 > 0:05:36- He is famous for organizing - the first Eisteddfod in 1176.
0:05:43 > 0:05:46- Two centuries later, - the descendants of Lord Rhys...
0:05:46 > 0:05:49- ..were not so prominent - in Welsh history.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53- One man from this area - was eager to get on in the world.
0:05:53 > 0:05:57- That man was Gruffydd ap Nicholas, - Rhys ap Thomas' grandfather.
0:05:57 > 0:06:01- Gruffydd married a girl - from Lord Rhys' line in Dinefwr.
0:06:03 > 0:06:05- He was a bit of a chancer.
0:06:06 > 0:06:08- He was a bit of - a Del Boy of his time.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10- He became quite wealthy...
0:06:10 > 0:06:14- ..due to a lot of - spurious activities he carried on...
0:06:14 > 0:06:15- ..around Carmarthenshire.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18- There were opportunities.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21- If a member of the Welsh nobility - saw one and went for it...
0:06:21 > 0:06:25- ..they could collect duties - and become influential over time.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29- They could buy land - and marry into land too.
0:06:30 > 0:06:33- Gruffydd ap Nicholas - was incredibly effective at that.
0:06:38 > 0:06:42- Gruffydd went on to win favours - and rights on lands in Carmarthen...
0:06:42 > 0:06:45- ..Cardigan, Aberystwyth, Dinefwr, - Carreg Cennen.
0:06:46 > 0:06:48- He was very loyal to the King.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- While his patrons were in power, - he did well.
0:06:55 > 0:06:58- We learn about Gruffydd ap Nicholas - and his family...
0:06:59 > 0:07:00- ..from the work of poets.
0:07:01 > 0:07:04- For the most part, - the nobles at the time...
0:07:04 > 0:07:08- ..were praised by bards - for being soldiers.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13- In Gruffydd ap Nicholas' case, it's - obvious he was a gifted soldier.
0:07:13 > 0:07:17- It isn't a stereotype in his case.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21- What's important to remember - about this period...
0:07:21 > 0:07:23- ..is the importance of bards.
0:07:23 > 0:07:25- They were a propaganda machine.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28- It's not surprising - Gruffydd ap Nicholas...
0:07:29 > 0:07:32- ..held a large Eisteddfod - in the centre of Carmarthen...
0:07:32 > 0:07:34- ..during the 15th century.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36- Dafydd ab Edmwnd was responsible.
0:07:37 > 0:07:39- They managed to discuss - and agree on rules...
0:07:40 > 0:07:42- ..for cynghanedd - and strict metre poetry.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46- Those rules are almost - unchanged since then.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48- However, it was a period - of fighting.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- A very uncertain period.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55- According to some, Gruffydd ap - Nicholas was killed in 1461...
0:07:55 > 0:07:58- ..at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross - near Hereford.
0:07:58 > 0:08:02- This was a battle between Yorkists - and Lancastrians.
0:08:02 > 0:08:04- Gruffydd supported Owen Tudor...
0:08:05 > 0:08:08- ..and his son Jasper Tudor - on the Lancastrian side.
0:08:09 > 0:08:14- They lost. Gruffydd died - and Owen Tudor was executed.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17- Jasper Tudor escaped.
0:08:19 > 0:08:22- A year later, the Yorkists - attacked Carreg Cennen Castle.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26- Rhys' family were responsible - for rebuilding the castle.
0:08:26 > 0:08:30- Rhys and his father Thomas - had to surrender and flee Wales...
0:08:30 > 0:08:34- ..to the court of Philip the Good, - the Duke of Burgundy.
0:08:46 > 0:08:51- My conscience is troubling me - but my memories are mixed.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54- Some of them joyful.
0:08:55 > 0:09:00- Philip's court in Burgundy. - What a place.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02- It was full of culture and arts.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07- The emphasis was learning - to behave nobly.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09- Learning about European culture...
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- ..and also the continent's methods - of fighting.
0:09:14 > 0:09:18- I was so young, - yet so eager to learn.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- And learn I did.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27- Philip had a system of training - that came from the idea...
0:09:27 > 0:09:30- ..of the Knights - of the Golden Fleece.
0:09:31 > 0:09:32- It was similar to the idea...
0:09:32 > 0:09:36- ..of the Knights of the Round Table - with King Arthur.
0:09:36 > 0:09:38- The history of King Arthur - fills me with awe.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41- The bards see me in that tradition.
0:09:42 > 0:09:47- The court of Philip was one of - the most renowned courts in Europe.
0:09:47 > 0:09:49- It was the best court in Europe.
0:09:49 > 0:09:53- It knocked everything - into a cocked hat, everything else.
0:09:53 > 0:09:58- It was based on the knightly virtues - of chivalry and honour.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00- There were lots of jousts.
0:10:01 > 0:10:06- Young men were trained - in the art of warfare...
0:10:06 > 0:10:09- ..but also Philip - was a very well-educated man.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13- He had lots of scholars - at his court, lots of poets.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18- It was really - quite a staggering place to be.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- I think for a young man like Rhys, - who was 14 at the time...
0:10:21 > 0:10:24- ..it must have been overwhelming - to the senses.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- Rhys and his father - returned to Wales.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- Rhys was now an ambitious young man.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36- He was wed to Efa, the daughter - and heir to Cwrt Henri, Llangathen.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39- His main court - was his mother's home...
0:10:40 > 0:10:43- ..that was Abermarlais, a few miles - to the north east of Dinefwr.
0:10:43 > 0:10:47- The majority of the Tywi valley - came under his control.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- Following the death of his - two brothers and father...
0:10:51 > 0:10:54- ..Rhys was the sole heir to his - family's wealth and lands.
0:10:56 > 0:11:01- Rhys ap Thomas' father, Thomas ap - Gruffydd, was killed in battle.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05- He was killed by the Herbert family - near Machynlleth.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07- That family was Yorkist.
0:11:07 > 0:11:12- This was a part of the feud between - the Yorkists and Lancastrians.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16- It's no wonder Rhys supported - the Lancasters eventually.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21- The bards, big and small, - were witness to this.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24- They referred to him - as a generous patron.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27- It is clear that he - was a powerful nobleman.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- He was a huge patron of the bards.
0:11:34 > 0:11:39- Not only a lot of lesser bards but - the biggest bards of the time too.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41- People like Guto'r Glyn.
0:11:42 > 0:11:44- We have the evidence - of Polydore Vergil...
0:11:44 > 0:11:47- ..who wrote during - Henry VII's reign.
0:11:47 > 0:11:50- He says that Rhys ap Thomas - had two main traits.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- The first was his willpower.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55- The second was his skill - as a military leader.
0:11:57 > 0:12:00- The situation between - the Houses of York and Lancaster...
0:12:01 > 0:12:02- ..continued to be difficult.
0:12:02 > 0:12:06- When Henry Tudor was born - in 1457 in Pembroke Castle...
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- ..it was argued that - he was the true heir of the crown...
0:12:09 > 0:12:12- ..and the only Lancastrian claimant.
0:12:12 > 0:12:18- Just like a game of chess, families - sided with one house or the other.
0:12:18 > 0:12:22- They also switched sides in order - not to lose favour, land and power.
0:12:30 > 0:12:35- I learned early that you won't - always win through rebellion.
0:12:37 > 0:12:42- Playing games, conspiring - and buying time bring rewards.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- Don't mention values and principles.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- Rare are the material rewards - gained from those.
0:12:53 > 0:12:56- But now, with the end nearing...
0:12:58 > 0:13:02- ..values and principles - are more important.
0:13:05 > 0:13:08- Certainly, they're a balm - for the troubled conscience.
0:13:11 > 0:13:11- .
0:13:15 > 0:13:15- Subtitles
0:13:15 > 0:13:17- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:13:24 > 0:13:27- In 1483, - following the death of Edward IV...
0:13:28 > 0:13:32- ..his sons, Edward V and Richard, - were 12 and 9 years old.
0:13:32 > 0:13:36- Their uncle, Richard of York, - was in control.
0:13:36 > 0:13:39- But, the young princes disappeared.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43- Richard was crowned - as Richard III in their place.
0:13:44 > 0:13:48- Some people, the Yorkists, - were very happy with this.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- Others, the Lancastrians, - were furious.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- All commoners hoped for peace.
0:13:57 > 0:14:01- By now, Rhys ap Thomas was outwardly - supportive of Richard III.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06- According to some, he'd made an - oath that only over his body...
0:14:07 > 0:14:10- ..could anyone come through Wales - to attack the King.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14- There was, of course, a problem...
0:14:14 > 0:14:20- ..when Richard III, Edward IV's - brother, ascended the throne.
0:14:20 > 0:14:25- The allegations are - that he'd killed Edward IV's sons...
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- ..to gain authority.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- That certainly caused problems - in terms of loyalty.
0:14:36 > 0:14:40- Even during this bloody period - of the War of the Roses...
0:14:40 > 0:14:44- ..killing innocent children - was considered unforgivable.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49- But there was one other matter that - enraged Rhys ap Thomas at the time.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51- This was Richard III's request...
0:14:52 > 0:14:55- ..to keep Rhys' son Gruffydd - hostage in the royal court...
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- ..to ensure Rhys ap Thomas' support.
0:15:00 > 0:15:05- Some suggest - that Richard's request...
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- ..to hold Rhys ap Thomas' son - hostage...
0:15:10 > 0:15:16- ..was secondary to the offer - that Rhys ap Thomas...
0:15:16 > 0:15:21- ..would be his right-hand man - in South Wales.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24- The job was his...
0:15:24 > 0:15:30- ..but his son would be an insurance - policy against a rebellion.
0:15:32 > 0:15:35- Yes, I sent a letter by the hand - of Talley Abbot...
0:15:35 > 0:15:37- ..promising Richard my support.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40- The words are still in my memory.
0:15:41 > 0:15:46- My conscience binds me to love - and serve my King and country.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48- My vow can do no more.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- Richard wanted to take - my son as a hostage.
0:15:52 > 0:15:55- My four-year-old son - a hostage for my loyalty.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- This was too much - for both myself and his mother.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- Such presumption from the King.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06- To take my son!
0:16:06 > 0:16:10- What kind of man - would do that to a four-year-old?
0:16:12 > 0:16:14- Despite signing the letter...
0:16:14 > 0:16:17- .."most obedient and most faithful - subject and servant"...
0:16:17 > 0:16:22- ..the request itself - had hurt and infuriated me.
0:16:23 > 0:16:26- No, he would not get my son - as hostage.
0:16:26 > 0:16:31- But I had to ensure I did not show - my true feelings to anyone.
0:16:32 > 0:16:34- Buy time.
0:16:34 > 0:16:37- There would be an opportunity - to strike back.
0:16:38 > 0:16:39- Rhys must have been very aware...
0:16:40 > 0:16:43- ..that the cost of supporting - the losing side would be his head.
0:16:45 > 0:16:49- When choosing sides, these things - must have gone through his mind.
0:16:49 > 0:16:53- His old loyalty to Lancaster - would still be pulling.
0:16:53 > 0:16:58- He was also aware of the huge risk - this meant for him and his family.
0:17:00 > 0:17:06- By 1485, both Richard III's son - and wife, Anne, had died.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09- That left him - in a very weak position.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11- He was a King with no heir.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15- Henry Tudor and his uncle, - Jasper Tudor were in France.
0:17:15 > 0:17:20- They were busy collecting an army to - land in Britain and attack Richard.
0:17:21 > 0:17:27- Richard III required support from - men like Rhys ap Thomas in Wales.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31- Richard didn't know - where Henry would land.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34- He knew he was coming - but he didn't know where he'd land.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37- He'd moved to Nottingham - by the summer of 1485...
0:17:37 > 0:17:40- ..to be in the centre - of the kingdom...
0:17:40 > 0:17:42- ..ready to strike - at Henry's landing site.
0:17:42 > 0:17:49- He needed people locally - in many areas to watch the coasts.
0:17:52 > 0:17:56- In Kidwelly, there lived a lawyer - named Trahaearn ap Morgan.
0:17:56 > 0:17:57- He was one of the links...
0:17:58 > 0:18:02- ..between Henry Tudor and supportive - nobles in Britain, including Rhys.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06- Another was John Morgan - from Tredegar, the lawyer's brother.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09- He would later become - the Bishop of St Davids.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12- Rhys was careful - not to show his true colours...
0:18:13 > 0:18:17- ..or cunning in continuing to appear - to support King Richard III.
0:18:18 > 0:18:21- Gold. - I loved its colour and its touch.
0:18:22 > 0:18:23- Too much.
0:18:23 > 0:18:29- Richard III gave me an annual sum - to buy my support.
0:18:31 > 0:18:35- Threatening to keep my son hostage - was one step too far.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40- Under Richard III - and the Yorkists...
0:18:40 > 0:18:44- ..there was little chance - of climbing higher politically.
0:18:46 > 0:18:49- Henry Tudor offered more.
0:18:49 > 0:18:51- Yes, there was danger...
0:18:51 > 0:18:55- ..but through good planning - and conspiring...
0:18:55 > 0:18:58- ..it was possible - to conquer Richard.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01- I may have sworn an oath - of fealty to him...
0:19:02 > 0:19:06- ..and I won't go back on my word - if it isn't in my interest.
0:19:08 > 0:19:13- Henry and Jasper had deliberately - chosen to land in Wales.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17- They were hoping there wouldn't be - any direct resistance.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21- They would have time to gather - an army and travel towards Richard.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- They could do that without someone - resisting them straight away.
0:19:26 > 0:19:27- What Richard wanted...
0:19:27 > 0:19:31- ..was for his supporters in Wales - to deal with Henry early.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33- That's not how it was.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- On 1 August 1485, Henry Tudor - sailed towards Wales.
0:19:38 > 0:19:41- He had the support - of the King of France.
0:19:42 > 0:19:47- He landed about two miles from Dale - in Pembrokeshire on 7 August.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54- When Henry Tudor landed here, - he changed the course...
0:19:54 > 0:19:58- ..not only of Welsh history, - but British history too.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- He put Rhys ap Thomas - in quite a quandary.
0:20:02 > 0:20:04- What would he do?
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- Fight the incoming claimant - or support Henry Tudor?
0:20:11 > 0:20:15- This place is a turning point - in our history.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47- According to one old legend...
0:20:47 > 0:20:51- ..because Rhys swore that nobody - could come through Wales...
0:20:51 > 0:20:54- ..to attack Richard III - only over his body...
0:20:54 > 0:20:57- ..the then bishop of St Davids - advised him to do exactly that.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00- That would release him - from the oath.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02- And it's what he did.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04- He lay down under Mullock bridge...
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- ..while Henry's soldiers - marched over his body.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- The myth that Rhys lies down - under Mullock bridge...
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- ..while Henry Tudor marches across - so that Rhys doesn't break his word.
0:21:21 > 0:21:22- It's just a myth.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- Rhys was halfway up country by then.
0:21:28 > 0:21:31- He wouldn't have had time to get - back and lie under Mullock bridge.
0:21:33 > 0:21:35- It would have been pointless.
0:21:41 > 0:21:46- Rhys kept everyone guessing by not - siding with one side or the other.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- That is part, most likely, - of his success.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56- This choice of different routes - is very interesting.
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- It isn't completely obvious...
0:21:59 > 0:22:04- ..that Rhys has made - the final decision to join Henry.
0:22:04 > 0:22:10- It could be suggested that he was - waiting to see what would happen.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- There is evidence that he and Henry - had been in contact...
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- ..that messages - went back and forth...
0:22:17 > 0:22:19- ..and that they both knew - the plans...
0:22:19 > 0:22:24- ..and that they'd planned to meet - at Welshpool, close to the border.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28- The natural way for him - to go to claim the crown...
0:22:28 > 0:22:30- ..was straight across South Wales...
0:22:30 > 0:22:33- ..just as if he'd caught - a Great Western train...
0:22:33 > 0:22:37- ..if such things existed - at that time, straight for London.
0:22:37 > 0:22:41- That's not what he did, is it?
0:22:41 > 0:22:45- He headed to the North West - along the coast.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50- Rhys' path went more - through the heart of Wales.
0:22:50 > 0:22:55- He went through Carmarthen, - Brecon, Builth Wells...
0:22:55 > 0:22:57- ..Llangurig up to Welshpool.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59- That follows a path...
0:23:00 > 0:23:04- ..along the western side - of the Marches.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08- More to the east, there was more - support for the house of York.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12- The South West was a traditional - Lancaster stronghold.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14- What Rhys was doing, in a way...
0:23:14 > 0:23:19- ..was following the border - with Yorkist territory.
0:23:19 > 0:23:20- By doing that...
0:23:20 > 0:23:24- ..he may have been sheltering - Henry from an Eastern attack.
0:23:26 > 0:23:31- On the way to Bosworth, Henry Tudor - stayed near Machynlleth...
0:23:31 > 0:23:35- ..with the prophetic poet - Dafydd Llwyd o Fathafarn.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40- Dafydd Llwyd o Fathafarn - was the broadcast mouthpiece...
0:23:40 > 0:23:43- ..of the War of the Roses in Wales.
0:23:43 > 0:23:48- If the Lancastrians - had their broadcast minister...
0:23:48 > 0:23:50- ..that man was Dafydd Llwyd.
0:23:51 > 0:23:56- There was a good reason why - Henry Tudor visited Dafydd Llwyd.
0:23:56 > 0:24:00- According to tradition, - and I accept that tradition...
0:24:01 > 0:24:03- ..he spent the night at Mathafarn.
0:24:06 > 0:24:08- Over supper that night...
0:24:08 > 0:24:12- ..Henry Tudor questioned - Dafydd Llwyd about his fate.
0:24:12 > 0:24:16- The prophetic poet promised - an answer in the morning.
0:24:18 > 0:24:20- During the night...
0:24:20 > 0:24:24- ..Dafydd Llwyd tossed and turned, - but he couldn't sleep.
0:24:24 > 0:24:30- According to tradition, - his wife turned to him and said...
0:24:30 > 0:24:36- .."Just tell him he's certain - to win and claim the crown."
0:24:36 > 0:24:41- If that doesn't happen, he's - unlikely to come back to bother you.
0:24:41 > 0:24:47- If he is victorious, there's - a good chance you'll be rewarded.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55- I managed to win the support - of my people and the young men.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59- They were happy to fight - for a Welshman, Henry Tudor.
0:24:59 > 0:25:03- I'm a strong proponent - of physical exercise...
0:25:03 > 0:25:07- ..and nurturing strength - to fight in battle.
0:25:08 > 0:25:12- If I ever learned something, - it was military strategy.
0:25:12 > 0:25:16- Knowing where to be - and when to strike.
0:25:17 > 0:25:20- Henry had made me many promises.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22- I shared the hope - of seeing a Welshman...
0:25:22 > 0:25:24- ..on the throne - of England and Wales.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30- One bard referred to Henry - as the second great redeemer.
0:25:30 > 0:25:35- We all hoped he'd be more successful - than the first, Owain Glyndwr.
0:25:38 > 0:25:45- The August of 1485 was a turning - point, in more ways than one.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49- I was young, - in the prime of my days.
0:25:54 > 0:25:54- .
0:25:57 > 0:25:57- Subtitles
0:25:57 > 0:25:59- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:26:06 > 0:26:08- During harvest time...
0:26:08 > 0:26:13- ..around 16 August 1485...
0:26:13 > 0:26:16- ..Henry Tudor's army - and Rhys ap Thomas' army...
0:26:17 > 0:26:21- ..made their way through Wales - on the way to the English Midlands.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24- Their aim, - to defeat King Richard III.
0:26:24 > 0:26:27- At the same time, - the King was in Nottingham...
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- ..preparing - for the inevitable battle.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39- Rhys had shown his support - for Henry Tudor by now...
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- ..and Richard III knew it.
0:26:44 > 0:26:47- What a plot to deceive Richard.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49- To create doubt.
0:26:49 > 0:26:53- But the leaders of the - North Wales lands joined us too...
0:26:53 > 0:26:57- ..William Gruffydd ap Robin - and Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd...
0:26:57 > 0:27:01- ..Hugh Conway - and Rhisiart ap Hywel from Mostyn.
0:27:01 > 0:27:05- The Welsh were fervent - in their support for Henry Tudor.
0:27:05 > 0:27:07- I may as well admit it here...
0:27:07 > 0:27:11- ..my army, - my 1,000 disciplined soldiers...
0:27:11 > 0:27:15- ..were the most important, - and Henry Tudor knew this.
0:27:21 > 0:27:26- Richard moved his soldiers from his - base in Nottingham to Leicester...
0:27:26 > 0:27:30- ..and from there to Ambion Hill - outside Market Bosworth.
0:27:30 > 0:27:35- Leicester was one of the main - administrative centres back then...
0:27:35 > 0:27:38- ..not London, - as it was more central.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43- In the same way, Wales was ruled - from Ludlow, on the border lands...
0:27:44 > 0:27:45- ..as it was easier...
0:27:45 > 0:27:49- ..to govern north and south - and the Marches from there.
0:28:00 > 0:28:05- What a morning - - the morning of 22 August 1485.
0:28:05 > 0:28:09- Between us and Richard's army, - the ground was wet and marshy.
0:28:17 > 0:28:21- The Earl of Oxford was to attack on - behalf of Henry Tudor on one flank.
0:28:21 > 0:28:26- Nearby, undecided if they'd support - Henry Tudor, were the Stanleys.
0:28:30 > 0:28:34- Arrows were fired - by the Earl of Oxford's soldiers.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40- The Stanleys joined in the battle - on the side of Henry Tudor.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50- Then, and I don't understand why...
0:28:50 > 0:28:53- ..Richard - decided to attack Henry Tudor...
0:28:53 > 0:28:56- ..who had a small group of soldiers - nearby.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59- My soldiers and I were there too.
0:29:02 > 0:29:06- Henry's standard-bearer was killed, - Sir William Brandon.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10- Rhys Fawr ap Maredudd - picked up the standard.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13- I saw Richard coming towards Henry.
0:29:20 > 0:29:21- I had the halberd.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- As he charged towards Henry, - he turned his back towards me.
0:29:27 > 0:29:29- I lifted the weapon.
0:29:32 > 0:29:36- We have this image of Richard III - falling off his horse...
0:29:36 > 0:29:41- ..throwing himself amongst Henry - VII's supporters on the battlefield.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44- He apparently fought valiantly - on his feet...
0:29:44 > 0:29:47- ..shouting at the top of his voice, - "Treason"...
0:29:47 > 0:29:49- ..and was struck down.
0:29:49 > 0:29:54- His skeleton suggests he received - many blows to his head and body...
0:29:54 > 0:29:58- ..so a cluster of Welsh people - surrounding Henry...
0:29:58 > 0:30:01- ..who shared the responsibility.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04- The contemporary account - in a chronicle in Burgundy...
0:30:04 > 0:30:06- ..says he was killed by a Welshman.
0:30:07 > 0:30:11- So it's possible that a Welshman - supporting Henry was responsible.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15- Some name Rhys ap Maredudd - as the man who did the deed.
0:30:16 > 0:30:19- There's a strong tradition - saying it was Rhys ap Thomas.
0:30:22 > 0:30:26- After two hours of battle, - it was all finished.
0:30:26 > 0:30:31- Henry Tudor was now - the King of England and Wales.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41- After the morning of fighting...
0:30:41 > 0:30:45- ..Rhys ap Thomas was knighted - on Bosworth Field by Henry Tudor.
0:30:48 > 0:30:52- Then, Henry Tudor - rode victoriously into Leicester...
0:30:52 > 0:30:55- ..followed by Richard III's body.
0:30:56 > 0:30:59- The corpse was exhibited - for two days...
0:30:59 > 0:31:03- ..before it was buried - at Greyfriars Court.
0:31:04 > 0:31:09- His remains were found in 2012 - under a car park in Leicester.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12- They were reburied this spring.
0:31:13 > 0:31:16- It was proved - that they belonged to Richard III.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20- He was killed when his skull was - split by a weapon like a halberd.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26- What's noteworthy...
0:31:26 > 0:31:31- ..and is perhaps further proof - that Sir Rhys killed Richard III...
0:31:31 > 0:31:33- ..is the poets' evidence.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37- Guto'r Glyn composed a cywydd - of praise to Sir Rhys ap Thomas.
0:31:37 > 0:31:41- In it, he refers to the part - that Sir Rhys ap Thomas played...
0:31:41 > 0:31:43- ..in the Battle of Bosworth.
0:31:43 > 0:31:45- Sir Rhys ap Thomas, - to a large degree...
0:31:46 > 0:31:49- ..was the right man in - the right place at the right time.
0:31:49 > 0:31:53- If Rhys ap Thomas killed Richard...
0:31:53 > 0:31:56- ..then it shows - that he was already a part...
0:31:57 > 0:32:00- ..of Henry Tudor's - very close circle.
0:32:00 > 0:32:05- It confirms that there - had been careful planning.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09- Interestingly, - Guto refers to the battle itself.
0:32:09 > 0:32:10- He talks about...
0:32:11 > 0:32:14- There are key lines in the cywydd.
0:32:14 > 0:32:20- One of them is "killing the boar, - he shaved his head".
0:32:21 > 0:32:24- Of course, - the boar refers to Richard III.
0:32:25 > 0:32:31- For me, the only difficulty - is who carries out the deed.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34- Is it the King, is it Sir Rhys?
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- It's obvious - that Sir Rhys was present.
0:32:38 > 0:32:43- But there's some confusion - as to who scored the crucial try...
0:32:44 > 0:32:48- ..which meant that Wales - was victorious on Bosworth field?
0:32:48 > 0:32:50- I'm not certain.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52- We've got Jean Molinet, - the chronicler...
0:32:53 > 0:32:55- ..who was a contemporary - of Bosworth.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- He says it's a Welshman - who killed Richard III.
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- If Sir Rhys - had actually killed Richard...
0:33:02 > 0:33:08- ..I think Guto and a few - other bards had made more of it.
0:33:09 > 0:33:15- Guto's cywydd suggests - that it's extremely likely...
0:33:15 > 0:33:18- ..that soldiers, - Sir Rhys ap Thomas' men...
0:33:19 > 0:33:23- ..were responsible - for killing Richard III.
0:33:23 > 0:33:27- It's quite possible - that it wouldn't have been wise...
0:33:27 > 0:33:31- ..to boast too much - about who killed Richard III.
0:33:31 > 0:33:37- Killing a king wasn't necessarily - something to be too vocal about.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41- The tables might have turned and - then revenge would've been sought...
0:33:41 > 0:33:44- ..on whoever killed the King - from the York family.
0:33:45 > 0:33:48- But the part he played - was clearly crucial.
0:33:48 > 0:33:53- Within three days of the battle, - he was knighted, made a Sir.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- That was a reward.
0:33:57 > 0:33:58- That says a lot.
0:33:59 > 0:34:03- So I would say it points to the fact - that he probably did kill Richard...
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- ..because without Richard - being dead...
0:34:06 > 0:34:08- ..there is no way - Henry could ever be King.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12- It was no good wounding him, - somebody had to kill him.
0:34:15 > 0:34:19- Without a doubt, - Henry Tudor was delighted.
0:34:19 > 0:34:21- He couldn't thank me enough.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23- I was knighted on the spot.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28- What would my grandfather - have made of this?
0:34:28 > 0:34:30- Henry was true to his word...
0:34:30 > 0:34:33- ..and I was made - Chamberlain of South Wales...
0:34:33 > 0:34:34- ..a Steward of the King...
0:34:35 > 0:34:38- ..with land and control - over the lordship of Builth.
0:34:38 > 0:34:42- Oh, things changed significantly - for me.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49- On 30 October, two months - after the Battle of Bosworth...
0:34:49 > 0:34:53- ..Henry Tudor was crowned Henry VII.
0:34:54 > 0:34:57- The Welsh - thought this was great news.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59- A time for celebration.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10- Immediately after Henry Tudor's - victory in Bosworth...
0:35:11 > 0:35:13- ..the bards were delighted.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16- These prophecies had come true - at last.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19- After years of prophesying...
0:35:19 > 0:35:23- ..that a Welshman would regain the - English crown, the London crown...
0:35:23 > 0:35:27- ..and become head of Britain again, - it had actually happened.
0:35:28 > 0:35:29- Henry Tudor was their hero.
0:35:30 > 0:35:35- As Henry Tudor had to please English - politicians to get anything done...
0:35:35 > 0:35:40- ..I think the bards at the time - had been smart enough to realize...
0:35:40 > 0:35:44- ..that this didn't answer - all of the Welsh's requirements.
0:35:45 > 0:35:50- Sir Rhys ap Thomas continued - to receive honours and land...
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- ..making him richer even than his - grandfather, Gruffydd ap Nicholas.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58- Rhys was very ready - to flaunt this wealth...
0:35:58 > 0:36:00- ..and to share it too.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04- In Llanwenog - in southern Ceredigion...
0:36:04 > 0:36:08- ..the church tower was built under - the orders and cost of Sir Rhys...
0:36:08 > 0:36:12- ..as a thank you, possibly, to - the young soldiers from the area...
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- ..who were part of his army - in Bosworth.
0:36:15 > 0:36:18- Engravings of Tudor roses - were made near the roof...
0:36:18 > 0:36:22- ..and Sir Rhys ap Thomas' - coat of arms is above the door.
0:36:24 > 0:36:28- Many other battles were fought - to secure Henry VII's crown.
0:36:28 > 0:36:31- Sir Rhys was a key part - of the battles.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35- He was away from home more and more - doing work for the King.
0:36:40 > 0:36:44- When Arthur was born, a son to - Henry VII and his wife Elizabeth...
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- ..the new Prince's carer - and best friend...
0:36:48 > 0:36:51- ..was Gruffydd ap Rhys, - Sir Rhys ap Thomas' son, no less.
0:36:51 > 0:36:56- Sir Rhys' family were now - a prominent and central part...
0:36:56 > 0:36:59- ..of the royal family's court - on every level...
0:36:59 > 0:37:01- ..as well as governing in Wales.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04- In truth, this was just the start.
0:37:09 > 0:37:09- .
0:37:12 > 0:37:12- Subtitles
0:37:12 > 0:37:14- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:37:22 > 0:37:26- The fact that Rhys - progressed so much so quickly...
0:37:26 > 0:37:30- ..is proof of how Henry VII - felt indebted to him.
0:37:30 > 0:37:34- Is this proof that he killed - Richard III on the battlefield?
0:37:35 > 0:37:39- Rhys was given - considerable authority afterwards.
0:37:39 > 0:37:41- He spent time in court in London.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44- He was a member - of the Privy Council...
0:37:44 > 0:37:46- ..so the King turned to him - for advice...
0:37:47 > 0:37:50- ..in particular - on matters relating to Wales.
0:37:50 > 0:37:54- He was asked to arrange a tomb - for Henry VII's father, Edmund...
0:37:54 > 0:37:57- ..who died unexpectedly - before Henry was born.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01- He was known affectionately - as King of Carmarthen.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04- He was virtually King - here in South Wales.
0:38:05 > 0:38:07- He could do really - whatever he pleased.
0:38:08 > 0:38:11- Henry VII's son was Arthur.
0:38:11 > 0:38:14- Arthur married Catherine of Aragon - in 1501.
0:38:15 > 0:38:17- They lived in Ludlow...
0:38:18 > 0:38:22- ..the main town governing - Wales and the Marches at the time.
0:38:24 > 0:38:28- They were only married for - five months before Arthur died...
0:38:28 > 0:38:30- ..more than likely - of sweating sickness.
0:38:30 > 0:38:34- Who was chosen - to arrange the funeral...
0:38:34 > 0:38:38- ..but his best friend Gruffydd ap - Rhys, the son of Sir Rhys ap Thomas.
0:38:38 > 0:38:43- Prince Arthur - was buried at Worcester Cathedral.
0:39:01 > 0:39:05- Sir Rhys received - one of his greatest honours...
0:39:05 > 0:39:08- ..from Henry VII in 1505.
0:39:08 > 0:39:10- He was made Knight of the Garter.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15- This was the highest form of - chivalry honour given by the King.
0:39:16 > 0:39:19- Sir Rhys was the only Welshman - to receive this honour...
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- ..until the 20th century.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24- The Garter emblem - can be seen clearly on his tomb...
0:39:24 > 0:39:27- ..at St Peter's Church, Carmarthen.
0:39:28 > 0:39:31- To celebrate this in 1506...
0:39:31 > 0:39:34- ..Rhys ap Thomas held a big party...
0:39:35 > 0:39:37- ..in the house he had obtained...
0:39:37 > 0:39:42- ..because he had given someone a - mortgage who was then unable to pay.
0:39:43 > 0:39:45- This was Carew Castle.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48- He invited noblemen - from all over Wales.
0:39:54 > 0:39:55- What a celebration!
0:39:55 > 0:39:58- Me, a soldier - from the Dinefwr area...
0:39:58 > 0:40:02- ..being bestowed with one - of the greatest honours possible.
0:40:02 > 0:40:04- Knight of the Garter.
0:40:05 > 0:40:06- It was a prosperous time...
0:40:07 > 0:40:10- ..with many castles' land - and constableships coming to me...
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- ..and to my son, Gruffydd.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15- It was a time of organization...
0:40:15 > 0:40:18- ..of ensuring that everyone - paid their rent...
0:40:18 > 0:40:22- ..and that soldiers were available - and were well-prepared.
0:40:22 > 0:40:25- A time of ensuring - that a legal order was administered.
0:40:27 > 0:40:32- When Henry VII died in 1509, - it was the end of an era.
0:40:33 > 0:40:37- However, his son Henry VIII - wanted me to continue to advise...
0:40:37 > 0:40:39- ..and to rule on his behalf - in Wales.
0:40:41 > 0:40:46- Even in 1512, at 63 years old, - I fought in France with the King.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51- My main role at home - was to keep an eye on the seas...
0:40:51 > 0:40:54- ..so that no-one - could attack the country...
0:40:54 > 0:40:57- ..by landing on the coast - of south-west Wales.
0:40:58 > 0:41:02- I was so proud of my son Gruffydd - at the time.
0:41:02 > 0:41:04- My succession was safe.
0:41:04 > 0:41:07- He was given more and more - responsibilities.
0:41:07 > 0:41:10- He was also - one of the King's favourites.
0:41:11 > 0:41:12- Those were good times.
0:41:15 > 0:41:20- Despite the successes and honours, - tragedy hit the family in 1521.
0:41:20 > 0:41:24- Gruffydd ap Rhys - died at the age of 43.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28- It is likely he died while away - on business for the King in Calais.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33- He was buried in Worcester, - close to the tomb of Prince Arthur.
0:41:34 > 0:41:37- His death had a great effect - on Sir Rhys.
0:41:38 > 0:41:42- His intention had been for Gruffydd - to inherit all his land.
0:41:43 > 0:41:45- He was a brave soldier...
0:41:45 > 0:41:48- ..who had studied Law - at Lincoln's Inn in London.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52- He had been groomed to be an adviser - on Wales for the King.
0:41:54 > 0:41:57- Without another heir, - all of his kingdom...
0:41:57 > 0:42:02- ..was now likely to go to his - grandson, Rhys ap Gruffydd, aged 15.
0:42:09 > 0:42:13- By 1524, Sir Rhys's health - was deteriorating.
0:42:13 > 0:42:19- On 3 February 1525, he came - to Greyfriars Court in Carmarthen.
0:42:19 > 0:42:22- It was a strange move, - as he had many homes in the area...
0:42:23 > 0:42:26- ..and enough money - to secure the best care possible.
0:42:26 > 0:42:30- Was he turning to God - in his eleventh hour?
0:42:31 > 0:42:35- Looking back, it is possible - that there were things he regretted.
0:42:35 > 0:42:39- More than one life had ended - on the battlefield because of Rhys.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42- We must remember - that Rhys was probably there...
0:42:42 > 0:42:46- ..when Richard's body was carted off - fairly ignominiously...
0:42:46 > 0:42:48- ..to the Greyfriars in Leicester.
0:42:49 > 0:42:52- For a man like Rhys, - I think this would have been...
0:42:52 > 0:42:55- ..a very difficult thing - to cope with in his conscience.
0:42:56 > 0:43:00- It's possible that he felt he needed - to reconcile with his God.
0:43:01 > 0:43:05- I'm sorry for what I did. I'll end - my days here with the Greyfriars.
0:43:06 > 0:43:11- Like my liege Lord Richard did. - The man I killed.
0:43:11 > 0:43:12- The man that I destroyed.
0:43:19 > 0:43:21- The end is nearing.
0:43:22 > 0:43:24- Everything is weakening.
0:43:25 > 0:43:27- Is it wise to look back?
0:43:29 > 0:43:31- Yes, there were successes.
0:43:32 > 0:43:35- When I was a child playing - around Dinefwr and Abermarlais...
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- ..who would have believed - I could have such success?
0:43:40 > 0:43:42- And such losses.
0:43:44 > 0:43:48- Oh, God, I tried to be honest...
0:43:48 > 0:43:50- ..and fair.
0:43:51 > 0:43:57- I know I swore an oath of allegiance - to Richard III.
0:43:57 > 0:44:01- I then betrayed him and killed him - at the Battle of Bosworth.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04- But isn't this surely - the fate of soldiers?
0:44:05 > 0:44:08- How will you judge me?
0:44:09 > 0:44:14- Oh, God, do not judge me - on my faults alone.
0:44:15 > 0:44:18- Forgive me - for what I did to Richard.
0:44:19 > 0:44:26- # Amen #
0:44:29 > 0:44:33- Sir Rhys ap Thomas - died on 9 February, 1525.
0:44:34 > 0:44:36- He was 76 years old.
0:44:36 > 0:44:41- He was buried with the monks - at Greyfriars Court in Carmarthen.
0:44:41 > 0:44:47- Quite ironically, the site - is now Greyfriars Car Park.
0:44:47 > 0:44:50- Strange, - when you consider what happened...
0:44:50 > 0:44:54- ..to the remains of Richard III - and the other car park in Leicester.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05- After Henry VIII's - dissolution of the monasteries...
0:45:06 > 0:45:09- ..Sir Rhys's corpse - was moved to St Peter's Church...
0:45:09 > 0:45:11- ..in the centre of Carmarthen.
0:45:13 > 0:45:15- Sir Rhys married twice.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20- He had one son, who died young.
0:45:20 > 0:45:23- In his will, - he provides for his daughters...
0:45:24 > 0:45:27- ..and for 12 children - born out of wedlock...
0:45:29 > 0:45:31- ..and their mothers, - who were his lovers.
0:45:34 > 0:45:37- His grandson, Rhys, - inherited everything.
0:45:38 > 0:45:43- But he was accused of treason - and was executed by Henry VIII.
0:45:45 > 0:45:49- He was accused of conspiring - with the King of Scotland...
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- ..so that he would rule Wales.
0:45:53 > 0:45:59- He called himself Fitz Urien - to connect with the Old North.
0:46:00 > 0:46:04- Like all young men who come - into power at an early age...
0:46:04 > 0:46:06- ..he let it all slip away.
0:46:06 > 0:46:09- That was the beginning of the end, - I think...
0:46:09 > 0:46:13- ..for the whole - Rhys ap Thomas story and legend.
0:46:13 > 0:46:17- They just disappeared through - the bad behaviour of his grandson.
0:46:27 > 0:46:32- And so the sun set on - Sir Rhys ap Thomas's large kingdom.
0:46:40 > 0:46:43- However, his descendant, - Robert Talbot Rice...
0:46:43 > 0:46:45- ..continues the military connection.
0:46:45 > 0:46:48- He is a Major General - in the Welsh Guards.
0:46:51 > 0:46:54- I'm Sir Rhys ap Thomas's - fourteen-times great-grandson.
0:46:55 > 0:46:59- He was a remarkable man. - He lived in violent times.
0:46:59 > 0:47:02- He prospered in violent times.
0:47:03 > 0:47:05- He did a great deal...
0:47:05 > 0:47:10- ..to bring Wales - into the heart of British politics.
0:47:10 > 0:47:16- At the same time, I suspect he was - no saint to have got where he did.
0:47:20 > 0:47:25- Saint or no saint, - St Peter's Church in Carmarthen...
0:47:25 > 0:47:26- ..plans to move the tomb.
0:47:26 > 0:47:30- They wish to commemorate Sir Rhys - and his contribution...
0:47:31 > 0:47:33- ..as explained - by Canon Leigh Richardson.
0:47:33 > 0:47:39- At the moment, you can't see - the other side of the tomb.
0:47:39 > 0:47:41- We want a 360-degree view.
0:47:42 > 0:47:45- We want to be able to see - the top as well.
0:47:45 > 0:47:48- We want to create - an interpretation centre...
0:47:49 > 0:47:53- ..to show the history of Rhys, - the town and the church.
0:48:00 > 0:48:03- Were it not for this Welshman - from Llandeilo...
0:48:03 > 0:48:07- ..the history of Wales, Britain - and possibly the world...
0:48:07 > 0:48:09- ..would be very different.
0:48:10 > 0:48:13- Henry VIII would not have ruled...
0:48:13 > 0:48:16- ..nor would his daughter, - Elizabeth I.
0:48:16 > 0:48:20- She authorized the translation - of the Bible into Welsh.
0:48:20 > 0:48:22- Like new growth - in this cornfield...
0:48:23 > 0:48:27- ..the history of Sir Rhys ap Thomas - can either germinate anew or die.
0:48:28 > 0:48:30- It's up to us.
0:48:57 > 0:48:59- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:48:59 > 0:48:59- .