Editing Mieszko I

{{short description|Duke of Poland (c. 930–992) (ruled c. 960–992)}}
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{{More citations needed|date=January 2025}}
{{Infobox royalty
| title        = 
| image        = 
| caption      = 
| succession   = [[Duke of Poland]]
| reign        = 960&nbsp;– 25 May 992
| coronation   = 
| full name    = 
| predecessor  = [[Siemomysł]]
| successor    = [[Bolesław I the Brave]]
| spouse 2     = [[Dobrawa of Bohemia]]
| spouse 3     = [[Oda of Haldensleben]]
| issue        = [[Bolesław I the Brave]]<br>[[Świętosława]]<br>[[Vladivoj, Duke of Bohemia]] (?)<br> [[Mieszko Mieszkowic|Mieszko]]<br>[[Świętopełk Mieszkowic|Świętopełk]]<br>[[Lambert Mieszkowic|Lambert]]
| issue-link   = #Marriages and issue
| issue-pipe   = more...
| dynasty      = [[Piast dynasty|Piast]]
| father       = [[Siemomysł]]
| spouse       = [[Dobrawa of Bohemia]]<br>[[Oda of Haldensleben]]
| birth_date   = {{circa|930}}
| birth_place  = 
| death_date   = {{death date and age|992|5|25|930|df=y}}
| death_place  = [[Poznań]], [[Civitas Schinesghe|Poland]]
| date of burial = 
| place of burial = 
| religion     = {{ublist|[[Slavic paganism]] (before 966)|[[Chalcedonian Christianity]] (966–until his death)
}}
}}
'''Mieszko I''' ({{IPA|pl|ˈmjɛʂkɔ ˈpjɛrfʂɨ|-|Pl-Mieszko-I.ogg}}; {{circa|930}} – 25 May 992)<ref name=histdict>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=S6aUBuWPqywC&pg=PA354|title=Historical dictionary of Poland|publisher= Greenwood Publishing Group|year=1996|isbn=978-0-313-26007-0}}</ref> was [[Duchy of Poland (966–1025)|Duke of Poland]] from 960 until his death in 992 and the founder of the first unified [[History of Poland|Polish state]], the [[Civitas Schinesghe]]. A member of the [[Piast dynasty]], he was the first [[Christian]] ruler of [[Poland]] and continued the policies of both his father [[Siemomysł]] and his grandfather [[Lestek]], who initiated a process of unification among the [[Polish tribes]] and the creation of statehood.  

According to existing sources, Mieszko I was a potent politician, a talented military leader and a charismatic ruler. Through both alliances and military force, he extended ongoing Polish conquests. Early in his reign, he subjugated [[Kuyavia]] and likely [[Gdańsk Pomerania]] and [[Masovia]]. For most of his reign, Mieszko I waged war for control of [[West Pomeranian Voivodeship|Western Pomerania]].  He eventually annexed it to the vicinity of the lower [[Oder River]]. His internal reforms were aimed at expanding and improving the so-called war [[monarchy]] system. During the last years of his life, he fought the [[Duchy of Bohemia|Bohemian state]] and captured [[Silesia]] and lands now constituting [[Lesser Poland]]. 

In foreign policy, Mieszko I placed the interests of his country foremost and entered into agreements with his former foes. He successfully used diplomacy by concluding alliances with [[Bohemia]], [[Sweden]] and the [[Holy Roman Empire]]. Mieszko's alliance with the Czech prince [[Boleslaus I, Duke of Bohemia|Boleslaus the Cruel]] was strengthened by his marriage in 965 to the [[Přemyslid]] princess [[Dobrawa of Bohemia|Dobrawa]], who is said to have brought the Christian faith to Poland. Mieszko's [[baptism of Poland|baptism]] in 966 placed him and his country in the cultural sphere of [[Western Christianity]]; he is sometimes called the "[[Clovis I|Clovis]] of Poland" for his role in laying the foundations for a Christian Poland. On his death, he left to his son and successor, [[Bolesław I the Brave]], a country with greatly expanded territories and a well-established position in Europe.

Mieszko I also enigmatically appeared as "Dagome" in a [[papal]] document dating to about 1085, called ''[[Dagome iudex]]'', which mentions a gift or dedication of Mieszko's land to the [[Pope]] almost a hundred years earlier. The term possibly refers to Mieszko's adopted Christian name, [[Dagobert]], which often features in historical writing. Most sources also identify Mieszko I as the father{{efn|One source identifies her father as [[Skagul Toste|Skoglar Toste]].}} of [[Sigrid the Haughty]], a Scandinavian queen, the grandfather of [[Canute the Great]] and the great-grandfather of [[Gunhilda of Denmark]], [[Canute the Great]]'s daughter and wife of [[Henry III, Holy Roman Emperor]].

It is roughly to his borders that Poland was returned in 1945.

==Early life==
[[File:Shearing of Mieszko I of Poland.PNG|thumb|upright|According to a legend, Mieszko was blind during the first seven years of life and gained his sight during ''[[First haircut#Polish|postrzyżyny]]'' (first haircut), which was a [[Slavic paganism|pagan]] right of passage ritual.]]

There is no certain information on Mieszko's life before he took control over his lands. Only the ''Lesser Poland Chronicle'' gives the date of his birth as somewhere between the years 920–931 (depending on the version of the manuscript); however, modern researchers do not recognize the chronicle as a reliable source. Several historians on the basis of their investigations postulated the date of Mieszko's birth to have been between 922–945;<ref>ca. 922 (O. Balzer), between 930–932 (A.F. Grabski), ca. 935 (K. Jasiński), between 940–945 (S. Kętrzyński).</ref> the activity of the Duke in his final years of life puts the date of his birth closer to the latter year.<ref>Jerzy Strzelczyk "''Mieszko pierwszy''", vol. IV</ref>

[[Mieszko|Mieszko's name]] has traditionally been thought to be a diminutive of Mieczysław but this is refuted by the majority of modern historians. According to a legend first described by [[Gallus Anonymus]], Mieszko was blind during his first seven years of life. This typical medieval [[allegory]] referred to his [[Slavic paganism|paganism]] rather than an actual disability.<ref name="Hensel">{{cite book |last=Hensel |first=Witold |date=1967 |title=Polska przed tysiącem lat |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zEjRAAAAMAAJ&q=mieszko%20dagobert%20imi%C4%99 |location=Wrocław |publisher=Zakład Narodowy imienia Ossolińskich Wydawn. Polskiej Akademii Nauk |pages=84, 94 |oclc=749450364}}</ref> Another name of Mieszko, "Dagome", appears in the ''[[Dagome iudex]]'' document, though its origin is uncertain.<ref>{{cite book |last=Buko |first=Andrzej |date=2008 |title=The archaeology of early medieval Poland |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i6A3Q1WQIroC&dq=mieszko+dagobert&pg=PA184 |location=Boston |publisher=Brill |page=184 |isbn=978-1281936776}}</ref> Historians speculate that it was derived from Mieszko's adopted Christian name [[Dagobert]] or an abbreviation of the two names – "Dago" for Dagobert and "me" for Mieszko.<ref name="Hensel"/>

==Reign==

===Early reign===

Mieszko I took over the rule after his father's death {{Circa|950}}–960, probably closer to the latter date.<ref>K. Jasiński, ''Siemomysł'', Polski Słownik Biograficzny, vol. 37, 1996, pp. 58–59.</ref> Due to the lack of sources it is not possible to determine exactly which lands he inherited. Certainly among them were the areas inhabited by the [[Polans (western)|Polans]] and [[Goplans]],<ref>[[Gerard Labuda]], ''Mieszko I'', pp. 18–22</ref> as well as the [[Sieradz]]-[[Łęczyca]] lands and [[Kuyavia]].<ref name="Jasiński">''Początki Polski w nowym świetle'' (The beginnings of Poland in new perspective) by [[Tomasz Jasiński (historian)|Tomasz Jasiński]], p. 17. The [[Polish Academy of Sciences]], Portal Wiedzy www.portalwiedzy.pan.pl "Nauka", April 2007</ref> It is possible that this state included also [[Masovia]]<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 85; S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', pp. 34–35</ref> and [[Gdańsk Pomerania]].<ref>S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', p. 34; Henryk Łowmiański, ''Początki Polski'', vol. V, p. 502; G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 121–122</ref> Soon the new ruler faced the task of integrating the relatively large, ethnically and culturally heterogeneous territory. Although the residents of areas controlled by Mieszko spoke mostly one language, had similar beliefs and reached a similar level of economic and general development, they were socially connected primarily by [[tribe|tribal]] structures. It appears that the elders cooperating with the Duke first felt the need for super-tribal unity, as expansion allowed them to broaden their influence.

[[File:Grody w okresie Mieszka I.png|thumb|left|[[Polans (western)|Polan]] strongholds under Mieszko's rule, mid-10th century]]

Mieszko and his people were described around 966 by [[Abraham ben Jacob]], a [[Sephardi Jews|Sephardi Jewish]] traveller, who at that time visited the [[Prague]] court of Duke [[Boleslaus I, Duke of Bohemia|Boleslaus I the Cruel]].<ref>[[Jerzy Wyrozumski]] – ''Dzieje Polski piastowskiej'' (VIII w. – 1370) (History of Piast Poland (8th century – 1370)), Kraków 1999, p. 76</ref> Abraham presented Mieszko I as one of the four [[Slavic peoples|Slavic]] "kings",<ref>Jerzy Wyrozumski – ''Dzieje Polski piastowskiej'' (VIII w. – 1370) (History of Piast Poland (8th century – 1370)), Kraków 1999, p. 77</ref> reigning over a vast "northern" area, with a highly regarded and substantial military force at his disposal. More precise contemporary records regarding Mieszko were compiled by [[Widukind of Corvey]], and, half a century later, by Bishop [[Thietmar of Merseburg]].

By the time Mieszko I took over from his father, the [[Polans (western)|Polans]]' tribal federation of [[Greater Poland]] had for some time been actively expanding. Continuing this process, perhaps in the first years of Mieszko's reign, if it had not been done already by his father, Mieszko I conquered [[Masovia]]. Likely also during that period or earlier, at least part of [[Gdańsk Pomerania]] was obtained.<ref name="Jasiński"/> Mieszko's interests were then concentrated mainly on areas occupied by the eastern (''i.e.'', near the [[Oder|Oder River]]) branches of the [[Polabian Slavs]].

In 963 [[Margrave]] [[Gero]] of Meissen conquered territories occupied by the Polabian [[Lusatia]]n and Słupian tribes, and as a result came into direct contact with the Polish state. At the same time (about 960) Mieszko I began his expansion against the [[Velunzani]] and [[Lutici]] tribes. The war was recorded by the traveller [[Abraham ben Jacob]]. According to him, Mieszko I had fought against the Weltaba tribe, commonly identified with the Veleti. [[Wichmann the Younger]], a Saxon nobleman who was then a leader of a band of Polabian Slavs, defeated Mieszko twice, and around 963 a brother of Mieszko, whose name is unknown, was killed in the fighting. The frontiers at the mouth of the [[Oder|Oder River]] were also desired by the German margraves. In addition, the Veleti Bohemia, which at that time possessed [[Silesia]] and [[Lesser Poland]] regions, constituted a danger for the young state of the Polans.

===Margrave Gero's war; Mieszko's homage to the Emperor===
The chronicle of Thietmar poses some problems of interpretation of the information regarding the attack of Margrave Gero on the Slavic tribes, as a result of which he purportedly "subordinated to the authority of the Emperor Lusatia and the Selpuli [''viz.'', the Słupian tribes] and also Mieszko with his subjects". According to the majority of modern historians,<ref>see for example G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', chap. III.2.</ref> Thietmar made an error summarizing the chronicle of Widukind, placing the Gero raid there instead of the fighting that Mieszko conducted at that time against Wichmann the Younger. Other sources make no mention of such conquest and of putting the Polans state on the same footing with the Polabian Slavs. On the other hand, the supporters of the Gero's invasion theory<ref>see for example Henryk Łowmianski, ''Początki Polski'', Warsaw, 1973.</ref> believe that the Margrave did actually carry out a successful invasion, as a result of which Mieszko I was forced to pay tribute to [[Otto I, Holy Roman Emperor|the Emperor]] and also was compelled to adopt Catholicism through the German Church. The thesis that proposes the introduction of Catholicism as a result of this war finds no confirmation in German sources.

The homage is then a separate issue, since, according to the chronicle of Thietmar, Mieszko actually paid tribute to the Emperor from the lands ''usque in Vurta fluvium'' (up to the [[Warta]] River).<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. II chap. 29</ref> In all probability Mieszko decided to pay tribute in order to avoid an invasion similar to the one that Lusatia had suffered. This homage would take place in 965, or in 966 at the latest. Very likely the tribute applied only to the [[Lubusz]] land, which was in the German sphere of influence.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', chap. III.2.; A.F. Grabski, ''Bolesław Chrobry'', p. 25</ref> This understanding of the tribute issue explains why already in 967 Mieszko I was described in the Saxon chronicles as the Emperor's friend (or ally, supporter, [[Latin language|Latin]]: ''amicus imperatoris'').

===Marriage and conversion to Christianity===
{{See also|Baptism of Poland}}
[[File:Ostrów Lednicki - ruiny palatium - MF-IMG 6221.JPG|thumb|[[Ostrów Lednicki]], ruins of palatium and chapel]]

Probably in 964 Mieszko began negotiations with [[Boleslaus I, Duke of Bohemia]]. As a result, in 965 Mieszko married his daughter [[Dobrawa of Bohemia|Dobrawa]] (also named ''Dobrava'', ''Doubravka'' or ''Dąbrówka'').<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 43–45.</ref> This political [[Polish-Bohemian alliance]] is likely to have been initiated by the Polish ruler. It is probable that the marriage was officially arranged in February 965.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 92</ref>

The next step was the baptism of Mieszko. There are different hypotheses concerning this event. Most often it is assumed that it was a political decision, intended to bring Mieszko's state closer to the [[Czech (people)|Czech]]s and to facilitate his activities in the [[Polabian Slavs]] area. At the same time, the baptism decreased the likelihood of future attacks by German margraves and deprived them of the opportunity to attempt Christianization of Mieszko's lands by force. An additional reason could be Mieszko's desire to remove from power the influential pagan priest class, which may have been blocking his efforts to establish a more centralized rule.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', chap. IV.3.</ref>

A different hypothesis is linked with the above-mentioned acceptance of the veracity of Gero's invasion of Poland. According to it, it was the attack of the Margrave that forced the Catholicization, which was to be an act of subordination to the Emperor, done without the mediation of the Pope.<ref>H. Łowmiański, ''Początki Polski'', pp. 342–345.</ref>

[[File:Gladius Sancti Petri, Poznań (2).png|thumb|left|The [[Sword of Peter]], a religious relic gifted by [[Pope John XIII]] to Mieszko or [[Jordan (bishop of Poland)|Jordan]], the first Polish bishop. It arrived in Poland in around 968, following Mieszko's conversion.]]

Still other motives were responsible according to [[Gallus Anonymus]], who claimed that it was Dobrawa who convinced her husband to change his religion. Likewise chronicler Thietmar attributes Mieszko's conversion to Dobrawa's influence. There are no reasons to negate Dobrawa's role in Mieszko's acceptance of Roman Catholicism; however, crediting rulers' wives with positive influence over their husbands' actions was a common convention at that time.

It is generally recognized that the baptism of Mieszko I took place in 966.<ref>Between 965–967 according to the ''Monumenta Poloniae Historica'' ed. by A. Bielowski, vol. II, Lwów 1872; in 966 according to Tadeusz Wojciechowski.</ref> The place is unknown; it could have had happened in any of the cities of the [[Holy Roman Empire|Empire]] (possibly [[Regensburg]]), but also in one of the Polish towns like [[Gniezno]] or [[Ostrów Lednicki]].<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 92–97.</ref> The belief that the baptism was accomplished through the Czechs in order to avoid the dependence on Germany and the German Church is incorrect{{Citation needed|date=October 2022|reason=The previously stated soruce doesn't exist anymore and it's copy in Internet Archive doesn't support that claim}}, because Bohemia would not have its own church organization until 973. At the time of the baptism of Mieszko the existing Bohemian church establishment was a part of the Regensburg diocese. Thus, if the Polish ruler accepted the baptism through Prague's mediation, it had to be sanctioned in Regensburg. However, the religious vocabulary (words like baptism, sermon, prayer, church, apostle, bishop or confirmation) were adopted from the [[Czech language]] and had to come from Dobrawa's entourage and the church elements that arrived with her. Perhaps with her also came the first Polish bishop, [[Jordan (Bishop of Poland)|Jordan]]. It could be that the reason for the Czech preference of Mieszko was the existence in Bohemia of a mission which followed the precepts of the [[Byzantine Greek]] brothers and later [[saints Cyril and Methodius]], who developed and performed the liturgy in the Slavic rite, more readily understood by Mieszko and his subjects. The Slavic rite church branch had survived in Bohemia for another hundred years after Mieszko's baptism.

===Conquest of Pomerania===
[[File:Pokonany Wichman 1788 (79814146) (cropped).jpg|thumb|''Wichmann the Younger Surrenders to the Polish Prince Mieszko'' by [[Franciszek Smuglewicz]] (early 19th c.)]]

After the normalization of relations with the Holy Roman Empire and Bohemia, Mieszko I returned to his plans to conquer the western part of [[Pomerania]]. On 21 September 967 the Polish-Bohemian troops prevailed in the decisive battle against the [[Wolin]]ians led by [[Wichmann the Younger]], which gave Mieszko control over the mouth of the Odra River.<ref>Probably not the main stronghold of the region – [[Wolin (town)|Wolin]]. G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', cap. V.3.</ref> The German margraves had not opposed Mieszko's activities in Pomerania, perhaps even supported them; the death of the rebellious Wichmann, who succumbed to his wounds soon after the battle, may have been in line with their interests. A telling incident took place after the battle, a testimony to Mieszko's high standing among the Empire's dignitaries, just one year after his baptism: Widukind of Corvey reported that the dying Wichmann asked Mieszko to hand over Wichmann's weapons to Emperor Otto I, to whom Wichmann was related. For Mieszko the victory had to be a satisfying experience, especially in light of his past defeats inflicted by Wichmann.

The exact result of Mieszko's fighting in the west of Pomerania is not known. Subsequent loss of the region by Mieszko's son [[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław]] suggests that the conquest was difficult and the hold over that territory rather tenuous. In one version of the legend of [[Saint Adalbert of Prague]] (known in Polish as ''Wojciech'') it is written that Mieszko I had his daughter married to a Pomeranian prince, who previously voluntarily "was washed with the holy water of the baptism" in Poland. The above information, as well as the fact that Bolesław lost Western Pomerania, suggest that the region was not truly incorporated into the Polish state, but only became a [[fief]]. This conjecture seems to be confirmed in the introduction of the first volume of the chronicles of [[Gallus Anonymus]] concerning the Pomeranians: "Although often the leaders of the forces defeated by the Polish duke sought salvation in baptism, as soon as they regained their strength, they repudiated the Christian faith and started the war against Christian anew".

===War against Margrave Odo I of Ostmark===
In 972 Poland was attacked by [[Odo I, Margrave of the Saxon Ostmark]]. According to the chronicles of Thietmar, Odo acted unilaterally, without the Emperor's consent: "Meanwhile,<ref>At that time, Emperor Otto I was in Italy.</ref> the noble Margrave Hodo, having collected his army attacked Mieszko, who has been faithfully paying tribute to the Emperor (for the lands) up the Warta river."<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. II p. 29</ref>

{{See also|Battle of Cedynia}}

There are different hypotheses concerning the reasons for this invasion. Possibly Margrave Odo wanted to stop the growing power of the Polish state. Very likely Odo wanted to protect the Wolinian state, which he considered his zone of influence, from the Polish take-over.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 122.</ref> Possibly the Wolinians themselves called the Margrave and asked his help.<ref>J.P. Sobolewski, ''Niemcy, Polska a Pomorze Zachodnie w latach 971–972'', "Kwartalnik Historyczny", Vol. 95, 1988, No. 1. The same argument was also given by S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', p. 51.</ref> In any event, Odo's forces moved in and on 24 June 972 twice engaged Mieszko's army at the village of ''Cidini'', commonly identified with [[Cedynia]]. At first, the Margrave defeated Mieszko's forces; subsequently the Duke's brother [[Czcibor]] defeated the Germans in the decisive stage, inflicting great losses among their troops. It may be that Mieszko intentionally staged the retreat, which was followed by a surprise attack on the flank of the German pursuing troops.<ref>According to the reconstruction of the battle by W. Filipiowak.</ref> After this battle, Mieszko and Odo were called to the Imperial Diet in [[Quedlinburg]] in 973 to explain and justify their conduct. The exact judgment of the Emperor is unknown, but it is certain that the sentence was not carried out because he died a few weeks after the Diet. It is commonly assumed that the sentence was unfavorable to the Polish ruler. The ''[[Annales Altahenses|Annals of Altaich]]'' indicates that Mieszko was not present in Quedlinburg during the gathering; instead, he had to send his son Bolesław as a hostage.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Weiland |first1=Ludwig |title=Die grösseren Jahrbücher von Altaich |date=1871 |publisher=Franz Duncker |page=5 |location=Berlin |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=_uhSAAAAcAAJ&pg=PA5 |language=de}}</ref>

Mieszko's conflict with Odo I was a surprising event because, according to Thietmar, Mieszko respected the Margrave highly. Thietmar wrote that "Mieszko would never wear his outdoor garment in a house where Odo was present, or remain seated after Odo had gotten up."

It is believed that in practical terms the victory at Cedynia sealed [[West Pomeranian Voivodeship|Western Pomerania]]'s fate as Mieszko's dependency.

===Acquisitions in the east===
[[File:Polska 960 - 992.svg|thumb|right|Poland under Mieszko's rule, {{circa|960}}–992]]

According to archaeological research, during the 970s the [[Sandomierz]] region and the [[Przemyśl]] area inhabited by the [[Lendians]] became incorporated into the Polish state.<ref>''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', p. 35.</ref> None of it is certain for the lack of written sources. It is possible that especially the Przemyśl area, also inhabited the [[White Croats]], belonged at that time to Bohemia, which supposedly extended up to the [[Bug River]] and [[Styr River]].<ref>The limits were described in the document issued by the bishop of Prague to [[Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor]]. This document is preserved in the Chronicles of [[Cosmas of Prague]] and is considered a reliable copy; from G. Labuda ''Mieszko I'' pp. 148–151.</ref> The [[Primary Chronicle]] states that in 981 [[Vladimir I of Kiev|Vladimir]] of the [[Rurik Dynasty]] "went towards the Lachy and took their towns: Przemyśl, [[Czermno, Lublin Voivodeship|Czerwień]] and other strongholds (...)". The exact interpretation of this passage is uncertain, because the [[Rus' (people)|Ruthenian]] word "Lachy" meant both the Poles in general and the southeastern Lendians.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 160, 174.</ref> Mieszko's conquest of Sandomierz could also have taken place later, together with the takeover of the [[Vistulans]] (western and central [[Lesser Poland]]).<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', cap. VII.4.</ref> However, Widukind in the 10th century mentions Mieszko ruled over the ''Sclavi'' tribe of ''Licicaviki'', which is identified with the Lendians.<ref name="Hensel1960">{{cite book|last=Hensel|first=Witold|author-link=Witold Hensel|title=The Beginnings of the Polish State|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iJNHAAAAIAAJ|year=1960|publisher=Polonia Publishing House|page=47}}</ref><ref name="Jenkins1962">{{cite book|last=Jenkins|first=Romilly James Heald|author-link=Romilly Jenkins|title=Constantine Porphyrogenitus, De Adminstrando Imperio: Volume 2, Commentary|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=96ybRW9sLA4C|year=1962|publisher=Athlone Press|pages=139, 216}}</ref><ref name="Łowmiański1976">{{cite journal|last=Łowmiański|first=Henryk|author-link=Henryk Łowmiański|year=1976|title=Problematyka początków państwa polskiego w nowszych badaniach historycznych|journal=Slavia Antiqua|volume=23|pages=105–106}}</ref><ref name="Paszkiewicz1977">{{cite book|last=Paszkiewicz|first=Henryk|title=The Making of the Russian Nation|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=leTXAAAAMAAJ|year=1977|publisher=Greenwood Press|isbn=978-0837187570|page=359}}</ref><ref name="Braun1985">{{cite book|last=Braun|first=Jerzy|title=Poland in Christian Civilization|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K7LZAAAAMAAJ|year=1985|publisher=Veritas Foundation Publication Centre|page=114|isbn=978-0901215796}}</ref><ref name="Kalhous2012">{{cite book|last=Kalhous|first=David|title=Anatomy of a Duchy: The Political and Ecclesiastical Structures of Early P?emyslid Bohemia|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hY-JMg8Cd-0C|year=2012|publisher=Brill|isbn=978-9004229808|pages=94–96}}</ref>

Some historians suggest that the regions of Sandomierz, [[Lublin]] and Czerwień (western [[Red Ruthenia]]) were indeed annexed by Mieszko's state in the 970s, as lands valuable for trade reasons and as a starting point for a future attack against what was to become Lesser Poland, then in the hands of Bohemia. Sandomierz under this scenario was the central hub of the area, with Czerwień, Przemyśl and [[Chełm]] assuming the function of defensive borderland strongholds.<ref>A. Buko, ''Małopolska "czeska" i Małopolska "polańska"'' pp. 153–158.</ref>

===Involvement in German internal disputes; Second marriage===
[[File:Otto II. (HRR).jpg|thumbnail|left|upright|[[Emperor Otto II]], from ''Registrum Gregorii'', {{Circa|983}}]]

After the death of Emperor Otto I in 973 Mieszko, like his brother-in-law, Duke [[Boleslaus II, Duke of Bohemia|Boleslaus II of Bohemia]], joined the German opposition in support of the attempted imperial succession of [[Henry II, Duke of Bavaria]]. Mieszko may have been motivated by revenge because of the (presumably) negative verdict of the Quedlinburg summit, but, more importantly, he may have wanted more favorable terms for his cooperation with Germany.<ref>S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', p. 52.</ref> The participation of Mieszko in the conspiracy against [[Otto II, Holy Roman Emperor|Otto II]] was documented in only one source, the chronicles of the monastery in Altaich in its entry for the year 974. The Duke of Bavaria was defeated, and Emperor Otto II regained full power. Shortly afterwards, the young emperor waged a retaliatory expedition against Bohemia, in 978 forcing Duke Boleslaus into submission.

In 977 Mieszko's wife, Dobrawa, died. At first there were no apparent repercussions, as the Polish ruler had maintained his alliance with Bohemia.

In 979 Otto II supposedly attacked Poland. Mention of this event can be found in the ''Chronicle of the Bishops of [[Cambrai]]'' from the 11th century. The effects of this expedition are unknown, but it is suspected that the Emperor did not succeed. Due to bad weather, the Emperor was back at the border of [[Thuringia]] and [[Saxony]] in December of that year. It is uncertain whether the invasion actually took place. The chronicle only stated that it was an expedition "against the Slavs". Archaeological discoveries appear to support the thesis of Otto's invasion. In the last quarter of the 10th century there had been a radical expansion of the fortifications at [[Gniezno]] and [[Ostrów Lednicki]], which may be associated with the Polish-German war, or the expectation of such.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', chap. VI.4.</ref> The duration of the expedition suggests that it may have reached as far east as the vicinity of [[Poznań]].<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 158.</ref>

The Polish-German agreement was concluded in the spring or possibly summer of 980,<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 153.</ref> because in November of that year Otto II left his country and went to [[Italy]]. It appears that during this time Mieszko I married [[Oda of Haldensleben|Oda]], daughter of [[Dietrich of Haldensleben]], Margrave of the [[Northern March]], after abducting her from the monastery of [[Kalbe, Saxony-Anhalt|Kalbe]].<ref>It is understood that the marriage took place around 979–980 (S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', p. 53).</ref> Chronicler Thietmar described the event as follows:

::''When [[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław]]'s mother died his father married, without permission from the Church, a nun from the monastery in Kalbe, daughter of Margrave Dietrich. Oda was her name and her guilt was great. For she scorned her vows to God, and gave preference to the man of war before him (...). But because of the concern for the well-being of the homeland and the necessity to secure its peace, the event caused no break of relations, instead a proper way was found to restore concord. For thanks to Oda the legion of followers of Christ became augmented, many prisoners returned to their country, the shackled had their chains taken off, and the gates of prisons were opened for the trespassers.''<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. IV cap. 57</ref>

Although Thietmar made no mention of warfare that possibly took place on this occasion, the information on the return of the accord, acting for the good of the country and release of prisoners indicate that a conflict actually did occur.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Bolesław Chrobry'' p. 44.</ref>

The marriage with Oda considerably affected the position and prestige of Mieszko, who entered the world of [[Saxony|Saxon]] aristocracy. As a son-in-law of Margrave Dietrich, he gained an ally in one of the most influential politicians of the Holy Roman Empire. As the Margrave was a distant relative of the Emperor, Mieszko became a member of the circle connected to the [[Ottonian dynasty|imperial ruling house]].

===Cooperation with Sweden and the war against Denmark===

Probably in the early 980s Mieszko allied his country with [[Sweden]] against [[Denmark]]. The alliance was sealed with the marriage of Mieszko's daughter [[Sigrid the Haughty|Świętosława]] with the Swedish king [[Eric the Victorious|Erik]]. The content of the treaty is known from the traditional account—not entirely reliable, but originating directly from the Danish court—given by [[Adam of Bremen]]. In this text, probably as a result of confusion, he gives instead of Mieszko's name the name of his son Bolesław:

::''The King of the Swedes, Erik, entered into an alliance with the very powerful King of the Polans, Bolesław. Bolesław gave Erik his daughter or sister. Because of this cooperation the Danes were routed by the Slavs and the Swedes.''

Mieszko decided on the alliance with Sweden probably in order to help protect his possessions in [[Pomerania]] from the Danish King [[Harald Bluetooth]] and his son [[Sweyn Forkbeard|Sweyn]]. They may have acted in cooperation with the [[Wolin]]ian autonomous entity. The Danish were defeated c. 991 and their ruler was expelled. The dynastic alliance with Sweden had probably affected the equipment and composition of Mieszko's troops. Perhaps at that time the [[Varangians|Varangian]] warriors were recruited; their presence is indicated by archaeological excavations in the vicinity of [[Poznań]].<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 134.</ref>

===Participation in German civil war===

In 982 Emperor [[Otto II]] suffered a [[Battle of Stilo|disastrous defeat]] against the [[Emirate of Sicily]]. The resulting weakness of the imperial power was exploited by the [[Lutici]], who initiated a great uprising of the [[Polabian Slavs]] in 983. German authority in the area ceased to exist and the Polabian tribes began to threaten the Empire. The death of Otto II at the end of that year contributed further to the unrest. Ultimately the [[Lutici]] and the [[Obotrites]] were able to liberate themselves from German rule for the next two centuries.

The Emperor left a minor successor, [[Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor|Otto III]]. His regency was claimed by [[Henry II, Duke of Bavaria|Henry II of Bavaria]]. Like in 973, Mieszko and the Czech duke Boleslaus II took the side of the Bavarian duke. This fact is confirmed in the chronicle of Thietmar, which noted that "There arrived [at the Diet of [[Quedlinburg]]] also, among many other princes: Mieszko, Mściwoj and Boleslaus and promised to support him under oath as the king and ruler".<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. IV chap. 2</ref>

In 984 the Czechs took over [[Meissen]], but in the same year Henry II gave up his pretension to the German throne.

The role played by Mieszko I in the subsequent struggles is unclear because the contemporary sources are scarce and not in agreement. Probably in 985 the Polish ruler ended his support for the Bavarian duke and moved to the side of the Emperor. It is believed that Mieszko's motivation was the threat posed to his interests by the Polabian Slavs uprising. The upheaval was a problem for both Poland and Germany, but not for Bohemia. In the ''Chronicle of [[Hildesheim]]'', in the entry for the year 985 it is noted that Mieszko came to help the Saxons in their fight against some Slavic forces, presumably the Polabians.<ref>S. Szczur, ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', pp. 54–55.</ref>

One year later, the Polish ruler had a personal meeting with the Emperor, an event mentioned in the ''Annals of [[Hersfeld Abbey|Hersfeld]]'', which reported that "Otto the boy-king ravaged Bohemia, but received Mieszko who arrived with gifts".

According to Thietmar and other contemporary chronicles the gift given by Mieszko to the Emperor was a camel. The meeting cemented the Polish-German alliance, with Mieszko joining Otto's expedition against a Slavic land, which "together they wholly devastated (...) with fire and tremendous depopulation". It is not clear which Slavic territory was invaded. Perhaps another raid against the Polabians took place. However, there are indications that it was an expedition against the Czechs, Mieszko's first against his southern neighbors.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 168.</ref> Possibly on this occasion the Duke of the Polans accomplished the most significant expansion of his state, the takeover of [[Lesser Poland]].<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 174.</ref>

Thietmar's narrative, however, raises doubts as to whether the joined military operation actually happened. The chronicler claims that a settlement was then concluded between the Emperor and the Bohemian ruler [[Boleslaus II, Duke of Bohemia|Boleslaus II the Pious]], which is not mentioned in any other source and is contrary to the realities of the political situation at that time.

Another debatable point is Thietmar's claim that Mieszko "subordinated himself to the King".<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol IV, chap. 9; Chronicles of Hildesheim, p. 986.</ref> Most historians believe that it was only a matter of recognition of Otto's royal authority.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 180–185; Marian Jedlicki, ''Stosunek prawny Polski'', Poznań, 1939, p. 33.</ref> Some suggest that a [[fealty]] relationship could have been involved.<ref>Henryk Łowmiański, ''Początki Polski'', vol. V, p. 563.</ref>

===War against Bohemia; incorporation of Silesia and Lesser Poland===
{{see also|Polish-Bohemian War (990)}}
Whether or not the German-Polish invasion of Bohemia actually happened, the friendly relations between the Czechs and the Poles came to an end. Bohemia resumed its earlier alliance with the Lutici, which, in 990, resulted in a war with Mieszko, who was supported by Empress [[Theophanu]]. Duke Boleslaus II was probably the first one to attack.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 171.</ref> As a result of the conflict [[Silesia]] was taken over by Poland. However, the annexation of Silesia possibly took place around 985, because during this year the major [[Piast dynasty|Piast]] strongholds in [[Wrocław]], [[Opole]] and [[Głogów]] were already being built.<ref>Andrzej Buko, "''Archeologia Polski wczesnośredniowiecznej''", 2007, Ed. Trio.</ref>

The issue of the incorporation of [[Lesser Poland]] is also not completely resolved. Possibly Mieszko took the region before 990, which is indicated by the vague remark of Thietmar, who wrote of a country taken by Mieszko from Boleslaus.<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. I p. 33; argument presented by G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 171.</ref> In light of this theory, the conquest of Lesser Poland could be a reason for the war, or its first stage. Many historians<ref>Henryk Łowmiański, ''Początki Polski'', vol. V; A. Buko, ''Małopolska "czeska" i Małopolska "polańska"''</ref> suggested that the Czech rule over Lesser Poland was only nominal and likely limited to the indirect control of [[Kraków]] and perhaps a few other important centers. This theory is based on the lack of archaeological discoveries, which would indicate major building investments undertaken by the Bohemian state.

After its incorporation, Lesser Poland supposedly became the part of the country assigned to Mieszko's oldest son, [[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław]], which is indirectly indicated in the chronicle of Thietmar.<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. IV chap. 58; this theory is presented by G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 176.</ref>

Some historians, on the basis of the chronicle of [[Cosmas of Prague]], believe that the conquest of the lands around the lower Vistula River took place after Mieszko's death, specifically in 999.<ref>In favor: G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 172–173.</ref> There is also a theory according to which during this transition period Lesser Poland was governed by Bolesław, whose authority was granted to him by the Bohemian duke.<ref>Henryk Łowmiański, ''Początki Polski'', vol. V</ref>

===Dagome iudex===
[[File:DagomeCambraiCopy.jpg|thumb|upright|''[[Dagome iudex]]'']]

At the end of his life (c. 991–992), Mieszko I, together with his wife [[Oda of Haldensleben|Oda]] and their sons, issued a document called ''[[Dagome iudex]]'', where the Polish ruler placed his lands under the protection of the pope and described their borders. Only a later imprecise summary of the document has been preserved.

There are two main theories concerning reasons behind the issuing of ''Dagome iudex'':

*According to the first theory the document was an effort to transform the existing missionary bishopric into a regular organization of the Catholic Church, that would cover all of Mieszko's state. This understanding implies that the arrangement led to payment by Poland of [[Peter's Pence]].<ref>This theory has been presented in various forms by historians, including Robert Holtzmann, Stanisław Zakrzewski (''Najdawniejsza bulla'', pp. 21–23) and Henryk Łowmiański (''Początki Polski'', vol. V, pp. 602–603).</ref>
*The second theory assumes that the document was created in order to protect the interests of Mieszko's second wife Oda and their sons (who were named in the document) after Mieszko's death. Bolesław, Mieszko's eldest son, whose mother was [[Dobrawa]], was not named in the document.<ref>S. Zakrzewski, ''Najdawniejsza bulla'', pp. 11–12; G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', pp. 193–195.</ref> However, one of Mieszko's and Oda's sons, Świętopełk, also was not mentioned.

''Dagome iudex'' is of capital importance for [[History of Poland|Polish history]] because it gives a general description of the Polish state's geographical location at the end of Mieszko's reign.

===Late reign, death and succession===
[[File:Złota Kaplica. Pomnik Mieszka I i Bolesława I Chrobrego.jpg|thumb|left|upright|Monumental tomb of Mieszko I and [[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław I]] by [[Christian Daniel Rauch]]]]

During his last years of life Mieszko remained loyal to the alliance with the Holy Roman Empire. In 991 he arrived at a gathering in [[Quedlinburg]], where he participated in the customary exchange of gifts with Otto III and Empress Theophanu. In the same year he took part in a joint expedition with the young king to [[Brandenburg]].

Mieszko died on 25 May 992.<ref>''Thietmari chronicon'', vol. IV chap. 58</ref> Sources give no reasons to believe that his death occurred from causes other than natural. According to Thietmar the Polish ruler died "in an old age, overcame with fever". Probably he was buried in the [[Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Poznań|Poznań Cathedral]]. The remains of the first historical ruler of Poland have never been found and the place of his burial is not known with certainty.<ref>In 1951 the historian [[Helena Zoll-Adamikowa]] examined the alleged resting place of Mieszko, but found no signs of burial. It is not certain that the Cathedral had already been built before Mieszko's death, and the first mention of this as his burial place comes only from the chronicles of [[Jan Długosz]].</ref> In 1836–1837 a [[cenotaph]] was built for Mieszko I and his successor Bolesław I the Brave in the Golden Chapel ({{langx|pl|Złota Kaplica}}) at the Poznań Cathedral, where the damaged remains found in the 14th-century tomb of Bolesław were placed.

According to Thietmar Mieszko I divided his state before his death among a number of princes. They were probably his sons: Bolesław I the Brave, Mieszko and Lambert.

In 1999 the archeologist [[Hanna Kóčka-Krenz]] located what's left of Mieszko's palace-chapel complex in [[Poznań]].<ref>[http://www.warsawvoice.pl/view/19046 The Warsaw Voice – In brief (30 October 2008)]</ref>

==Legacy==
[[File:Mieszko I (274939) (cropped).jpg|thumb|Mieszko as imagined by [[Jan Matejko]] in the 19th century]]
Mieszko is chiefly credited with the unification of Polish lands. His state was the first state that could be called Poland. He is often considered the founder, the principal creator and builder of the Polish state.<ref>G. Labuda, ''Studia nad początkami państwa polskiego'', p. 324</ref> His acceptance of Roman Catholicism led to the inclusion of Poland in the mainstream civilization and political structures of Roman Catholic Europe. He sponsored the erection of churches. The [[Gniezno Cathedral]] was constructed during Mieszko's rule. It is very likely the Duke also founded the church at Ostrów Tumski and the [[Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Poznań|Poznań Cathedral]].<ref>G. Labuda, ''Mieszko I'', p. 201.</ref> Possibly during Mieszko's reign Poland began minting its own coin, the [[denarius]], though according to S. Suchodolski, the monetary system was installed by Mieszko's grandson and namesake, [[Mieszko II Lambert]].

At the end of his rule, Mieszko I left to his sons a territory at least twice as large as what he inherited from his father. The most significant were the additions of [[Silesia]], [[West Pomeranian Voivodeship|Western Pomerania]], and probably [[Lesser Poland]] including [[Kraków]]. He was the first ruler to conduct efficient foreign policy, which included agreements with [[Germany]], [[Bohemia]] and [[Sweden]], and prudently used his military resources.

Mieszko is featured on the obverse of the 10 [[Polish złoty]] [[banknote]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Narodowy Bank Polski - Internet Information Service |url=https://www.nbp.pl/homen.aspx?f=/banknoty_i_monety/banknoty_obiegowe/10zl_en.html |access-date=2022-09-17 |website=www.nbp.pl |language=en}}</ref>

==Marriages and issue==

According to Gallus Anonymus, before becoming a Christian Mieszko had seven pagan wives, whom he was required to relinquish, leaving Dobrawa as his only spouse. Nothing is known of the fates of any possible children from these relationships.<ref>[[Oswald Balzer]] (''Genealogy of the Piasts'', Kraków 1895) stated that Mieszko I had at least one son born from a pagan wife. The theory was based on the allegation that Mieszko's son, who was to be placed by order of Otto I in 973 as a hostage after the Imperial Diet of Quedlinburg, could not be Bolesław I the Brave because he was too young. This argument is refuted by Jan Widajewicz (''Czy Bolesław Chrobry był w młodości zakładnikiem u Niemców?'', ''Roczniki Historyczne'', vol. XVI, 1947, pp. 243–250). Modern historians have no doubts that the Polish prince who was placed as the imperial hostage was Bolesław I.</ref> In 965, before his baptism, Mieszko married [[Dobrawa of Bohemia]] (b. 940/45 – d. 977). They had two children:

#[[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław I the Brave (''Chrobry'')]] (b. 967 – d. 17 June 1025).
#[[Świętosława]]/[[Sigrid the Haughty]] (b. 968/72 – d. c. 1016), married first to [[Eric VI of Sweden|Eric the Victorious]], King of [[Sweden]] and later to [[Sweyn Forkbeard]], King of [[Denmark]]. From her second marriage, she probably was the mother of [[Cnut the Great]], King of Denmark, [[Norway]] and [[England]]. Some researchers,<ref name="academia.edu">{{Cite web|url=https://www.academia.edu/1045395|title = Świętosława, Sygryda, Gunhilda. Tożsamość córki Mieszka I i jej skandynawskie związki &#91;Świętosława, Sygryda, Gunhilda. The identity of Mieszko I's daughter and her Scandinavian relationships|last1 = Prinke|first1 = Rafał T.}}</ref> comparing Scandinavian, Polish and German sources state it was [[Gunhild of Wenden]] who was the daughter of Mieszko I and Oda (not Dobrawa) and who became wife of [[Sweyn Forkbeard]], king of [[Denmark]], [[England]], and parts of [[Norway]], mother of [[Cnut the Great]], king of [[Denmark]], [[England]], [[Norway]] and parts of [[Sweden]] (the Anglo-Scandinavian or North Sea Empire), as well as [[Harald II of Denmark|Harald II]] and [[Świętosława]]. She was also the grandmother of [[Gunhild]], the wife of [[Henry III, Holy Roman Emperor]].

According to one hypothesis there was another daughter of Mieszko, married to a Pomeranian Slavic prince; she could be a daughter of Dobrawa or of one of the previous pagan wives. According to one theory, this unnamed daughter of Mieszko I and her Pomeranian husband were the parents of [[Zemuzil, Duke of Pomerania]]. Also, a theory exists (apparently based on Thietmar and supported by [[Oswald Balzer]] in 1895) that [[Vladivoj, Duke of Bohemia|Vladivoj]], who ruled as Duke of [[Bohemia]] in 1002–1003, was a son of Mieszko and Dobrawa.{{CN|date=June 2023}} Although most modern historians reject this claim, Bohemian historiography supported the Piast parentage of Vladivoj.<ref>J. Žemlička, ''Čechy v době knižecí'', Prague 1997, pp. 72–73.</ref>

In 978/79, Mieszko married [[Oda of Haldensleben]] (b. 955/60 – d. 1023), daughter of [[Dietrich of Haldensleben]], Margrave of the [[Northern March]]. She was abducted by her future husband from the monastery of [[Kalbe, Saxony-Anhalt|Kalbe]]. They had three sons:
#[[Mieszko Mieszkowic|Mieszko]] (b. c. 979 – d. aft. 992/95)
#[[Świętopełk Mieszkowic|Świętopełk]] (b. ca. 980 – d. bef. 991?)
#[[Lambert Mieszkowic|Lambert]] (b. c. 981 – d. aft. 992/95).

After a struggle for power between Bolesław I and Oda with her minor sons (Bolesław's half-brothers), the [[Bolesław I Chrobry|eldest son of Mieszko I]] took control over all of his father's state and expelled his stepmother and her sons from Poland.

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==Bibliography==
* Jasiński K., ''Rodowód pierwszych Piastów'', Warszawa-Wrocław (1992), pp.&nbsp;54–70.
* Labuda G., Mieszko I, (in) ''Polski Słownik Biograficzny'', vol. 21, 1976.
* Labuda G., ''Mieszko I'', Wyd. Ossolineum, Wrocław 2002, {{ISBN|83-04-04619-9}}
* Labuda G., ''Pierwsze państwo polskie'', Krajowa Agencja Wydawnicza, Kraków 1989, {{ISBN|83-03-02969-X}}
* Philip Earl Steele ''Nawrócenie i Chrzest Mieszka I'' 2005, {{ISBN|83-922344-8-0}}; 2nd edition 2016, {{ISBN|978-83-7730-966-7}}
* Philip Earl Steele, Homo religiosus: the phenomenon of Poland’s Mieszko I, [in] ''The dawning of Christianity in Poland and across Central and Eastern Europe'', Peter Lang, 2020, {{ISBN|978-3-631-78725-0}}
* Szczur S., ''Historia Polski średniowiecze'', chap. 2.2.1 Państwo gnieźnieńskie Mieszka I (pp.&nbsp;47–57) i 2.4.1 ''Drużyna książęca'' (pp.&nbsp;83–84), Wydawnictwo Literackie 2002, {{ISBN|83-08-03272-9}}

==See also==
{{Commons category|Mieszko I of Poland}}
*[[Prehistory and protohistory of Poland]]
*[[Poland in the Early Middle Ages]]
*[[History of Poland (966–1385)]]
*[[List of Poles#Royalty|List of Poles]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

{{S-start}}
{{S-hou|Piast Dynasty||920/945|25 May|992|}}
{{S-bef|before=[[Siemomysł]]}}
{{S-ttl|title=[[List of Polish monarchs|Duke of the Polans]]|years=960 – 25 May 992}}
{{S-aft|after=[[Bolesław I Chrobry|Bolesław I the Brave]]}}
{{s-end}}

{{Monarchs of Poland}}
{{Authority control}}

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