Leszek the Black facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leszek the Black |
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19th century portrait by Jan Matejko.
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| High Duke of Poland | |
| Reign | 1279–1288 |
| Predecessor | Bolesław V the Chaste |
| Successor | Henryk IV Probus |
| Duke of Sieradz | |
| Reign | 1261–1288 |
| Predecessor | Casimir I of Kuyavia |
| Successor | Władysław I the Elbow-high |
| Duke of Inowrocław | |
| Reign | 1273–1278 |
| Predecessor | Bolesław the Pious |
| Successor | Ziemomysł |
| Born | c. 1241 Brześć Kujawski |
| Died | 30 September 1288 Kraków |
| Burial | Dominican Church of the Holy Trinity, Kraków |
| Spouse | Gryfina of Halych |
| House | House of Piast |
| Father | Casimir I of Kuyavia |
| Mother | Constance of Wrocław |
Leszek II the Black (born around 1241 – died September 30, 1288) was an important Polish ruler. He was a member of the Piast dynasty, a very old and powerful family in Poland. Leszek ruled as the High Duke of Poland from 1279 until his death in 1288. He also held titles as a duke in other parts of Poland before becoming the High Duke.
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Who Was Leszek the Black?
Leszek II the Black was a significant figure in Polish history during the 13th century. He was known for his efforts to unite different parts of Poland. His rule came during a time when Poland was divided into many smaller duchies, each ruled by a different duke.
Early Life and Family
Leszek was born around 1241 in Brześć Kujawski. His father was Casimir I of Kuyavia, who was also a duke. His mother was Constance of Wrocław. Being born into the House of Piast meant Leszek was part of a long line of Polish rulers.
He married Gryfina of Halych. She was an important noblewoman from a neighboring region. Their marriage helped to form alliances and strengthen connections between different territories.
Becoming a Ruler
Leszek started his journey as a ruler by governing smaller areas. These were like provinces within Poland.
Duke of Sieradz and Inowrocław
Leszek first became the Duke of Sieradz in 1261. This was an important step in his political career. Later, in 1273, he also became the Duke of Inowrocław. Ruling these areas gave him experience in managing lands and people. He learned how to lead and make decisions for his duchies.
High Duke of Poland
The title of High Duke of Poland was the most important one. It meant he was the senior ruler among all the dukes. Leszek became the High Duke in 1279, taking over from Bolesław V the Chaste. This made him the main leader of Poland. His capital city was Kraków, which was a very important center at that time.
His Time as Ruler
As High Duke, Leszek faced many challenges. He worked to keep peace within Poland. He also had to deal with threats from outside forces. Rulers in the 13th century often had to defend their lands. They also had to manage the economy and ensure justice for their people.
Leszek's reign lasted for about nine years. He worked to maintain stability in a time of change. He was known for his efforts to strengthen the Polish state.
End of His Reign
Leszek II the Black died on September 30, 1288, in Kraków. He was buried in the Dominican Church of the Holy Trinity in Kraków. After his death, Henryk IV Probus became the next High Duke of Poland. Leszek's rule helped to shape the future of Poland.
Images for kids
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Leszek's seal
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A 19th-century depiction of Leszek the Black and his wife Gryfina, by Jan Matejko
