Treaty of Königsberg (1390)

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Königsberg (1390)?

Subject:

Treaty of Königsberg (1390)

Known for:

A 1390 treaty establishing loyalty and trade rights between Samogitian nobles and Teutonic Knights.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Treaty of Königsberg was signed in Königsberg (Królewiec) on May 26, 1390 during the Lithuanian Civil War (1389–1392) between Samogitian nobles and representatives of the Teutonic Knights. The 31-member or 30-member delegation from seven Samogitian regions (Ariogala, Kaltinėnai, Knituva, Kražiai, Medingėnai, Raseiniai, and Viduklė) arrived to Königsberg around the pentecost. They promised their loyalty to "their king" Vytautas and guaranteed trade freedom for the Knights in Samogitia.

Career & Major Achievements

The Knights gifted the nobles with food and clothes. Vytautas the Great waged a civil against his cousin Jogaila, Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland. In order to secure Teutonic support in the civil war, Vytautas signed the Treaty of Lyck and granted Samogitia up to the Nevėžis River to the Knights on January 19, 1390.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Samogitia was important for the Knights as this territory physically separated them from uniting with the Livonian Order in the north. Support of Samogitians was crucial to Vytautas as it was the only guarantee that the Treaty of Lyck would be carried out.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1390: 1390 Milestone — The Treaty of Königsberg was signed in Königsberg (Królewiec) on May 26, 1390 during the Lithuanian Civil War (1389–1392) between Samogitian nobles and representatives of the Teutonic Knights.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Königsberg (1390)

True or False: “True or false: The Treaty of Königsberg guaranteed the Teutonic Knights military control over all of Samogitia.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The treaty guaranteed trade freedom for the Knights in Samogitia, but it was a pledge of loyalty from the nobles to Vytautas, not a full military cession of the entire region.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Albert of Saxony (philosopher) — Historical peer (Died in 1390) (1390): German philosopher and mathematician known for logic and physics, and Bishop of Halberstadt.
• Engelbrekt Engelbrektsson — Historical peer (Born in 1390) (1390): Swedish nobleman and rebel leader whose uprising challenged the Kalmar Union's authority.
• Baha' al-Din Naqshband — Historical peer (Died in 1389) (1389): Founder of the Naqshbandi Sufi order, a major figure in Islamic mysticism.
• Cosimo de' Medici — Historical peer (Born in 1389) (1389): Banker and patron who established the Medici family's rule over Renaissance Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Königsberg (1390)