Henry IV Probus facts for kids

Henry IV Probus (which means the Righteous in Latin) was an important ruler in Poland during the 1200s. He was also known as Henryk IV Probus or Prawy in Polish, and Heinrich IV der Gerechte in German. Born around 1258, he became the Duke of Wrocław in Silesia in 1266. Later, in 1288, he became the High Duke of Kraków, which was a very important position in Poland at that time. He ruled until his death in 1290.

Henry IV was the only son of Henry III the White, who was also a Duke of Wrocław. His mother was Judith, the daughter of Duke Konrad I of Masovia.

Who Was Henry IV Probus?

Henry IV Probus was a powerful duke in the region of Silesia, which is now part of Poland. He inherited the Duchy of Wrocław when he was quite young. This made him an important figure in the history of medieval Poland.

Becoming a Duke

When Henry's father, Henry III the White, passed away, young Henry IV took over as Duke of Wrocław. This was a big responsibility for a young ruler. He had to manage his lands and people.

High Duke of Kraków

In 1288, Henry IV achieved an even greater title. He became the High Duke of Kraków. This position was like being the most important ruler among all the dukes in Poland. It showed his power and influence.

Henry's Legacy

Henry IV Probus was known for his efforts to unite different parts of Poland. He worked to strengthen his rule and expand his territories. He also supported arts and culture, like many rulers of his time. He is remembered as a significant figure in Polish history.

Images for kids

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  A map showing Silesia in 1273. Henry's Duchy of Wrocław is shown in orange.

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  Henry IV is shown here as a minnesinger. This picture is from the Codex Manesse, around 1304. Minnesingers were medieval German poet-musicians.

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  This is an image of Henry IV's tomb effigy in Wrocław. It's a reconstruction of how the medieval colors might have looked.

See also

In Spanish: Enrique IV de Breslavia para niños