Merthyr Rising

In June 1831 workers in Merthyr Tydfil rose amid wage cuts, unemployment, debt and anger at the social power of the ironmasters. Crowds took control of parts of the town, destroyed debt records and confronted troops. The red flag used during the unrest later became associated with working-class protest.

The rising was suppressed by force and followed by arrests and trials. Richard Lewis, known as Dic Penderyn, was convicted of wounding a soldier and hanged, although the safety of the conviction was later seriously questioned. His death became an enduring symbol of injustice in Welsh labour history and is central to Alexander Cordell’s The Fire People.