Origins & Early Life

Władysław I Łokietek, in English known as the "Elbow-high" or Ladislaus the Short (c. 1260/1261 – 2 March 1333), was King of Poland from 1320 to 1333, and duke of several of the provinces and principalities in the preceding years. He was a member of the royal Piast dynasty, the son of Duke Casimir I of Kuyavia, and great-grandson of High-Duke Casimir II the Just. Władysław I inherited a small portion of his father's domain, but his dominion grew as some of his brothers died young.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He unsuccessfully tried to incorporate the Duchy of Kraków (the Seniorate Province) in 1289, following the death of his half-brother Leszek II the Black and the withdrawal from contention of his ally Bolesław II of Masovia. After a period in exile during the rule of Wenceslaus II, Władysław regained several duchies and then Kraków in 1306 when Wenceslaus III of Bohemia was murdered. He temporarily took control of part of Greater Poland after the death of his ally Przemysł II, lost it, and then regained it. Władysław was a skilled military leader, but also an administrator; he conquered Gdańsk Pomerania, and left it to familial governors. For the defense of this territory, he turned to the Teutonic Knights...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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