Principality of Polotsk facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Principality of Polotsk (vassal of Rus' to 1021, part of Lithuania since 1307) Полацкае княства
9th century–1397
Capital	Polotsk
Common languages	Old East Slavic
Religion	Eastern Orthodox Church
Government	Principality
Prince of Polotsk
• 1044—1101	Vseslav
Legislature	Veche
History
• Established	9th century
• Incorporation into Lithuania	1397
Succeeded by Grand Duchy of Lithuania

The Principality of Polotsk was an important medieval state. It was also known as the Kingdom of Polotsk or the Duchy of Polotsk. This principality was formed by the Early East Slavs. It was one of the powerful states within the larger Kievan Rus' region.

The Principality of Polotsk had a lot of freedom to make its own rules. It grew around the old town of Polotsk. We don't know the exact date it started. Polotsk is first mentioned in the mid-9th century. At that time, it was part of Novgorod.

By the second half of the 10th century, Polotsk had its own ruling family. The first known ruler was Rogvolod, who died around 978. He is famous as the father of Rogneda. The principality faced many challenges. These included power struggles in the 11th and 12th centuries. It also had wars with the Land of Novgorod.

By the 13th century, the Principality of Polotsk became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. When it was at its largest, Polotsk covered big parts of what is now northern and central Belarus. It also included a smaller part of southeastern Latvia.

History of Polotsk

Early Beginnings

The town of Polotsk was very old. It was an important trading center. It was located on trade routes. These routes connected the Baltic Sea to the Byzantine Empire. This made Polotsk a rich and powerful place.

Becoming a Principality

In the 10th century, Polotsk started to become independent. It was no longer just a part of Novgorod. It began to be ruled by its own princes. This is how it became a principality. A principality is a territory ruled by a prince.

Famous Rulers and Conflicts

One of the most famous rulers was Vseslav. He ruled from 1044 to 1101. He was known for his military skills. Vseslav often fought against other princes of Kievan Rus'. These fights were about power and land.

The Principality of Polotsk often had "succession crises." This means there were problems deciding who would rule next. This led to many internal conflicts. These conflicts sometimes weakened the principality.

Joining Lithuania

Over time, the power of Polotsk began to decline. In the 13th century, a new strong state appeared. This was the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Polotsk eventually joined the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. This happened around 1307. It became an important part of this larger state.

Life in Polotsk

Culture and Religion

The people of Polotsk were East Slavs. They spoke Old East Slavic. The main religion was the Eastern Orthodox Church. Many churches and monasteries were built. These places were important for learning and art.

Government and Society

The principality was ruled by a prince. But the prince did not rule alone. There was also a council called the Veche. The Veche was a meeting of important citizens. They could make decisions and even choose the prince. This shows that people had some say in their government.

Images for kids

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  Polocensis Ducatus on the map of Lithuania by Gerardus Mercator

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  Principality of Polotsk within Kievan Rus in the 11th century

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  Saint Sophia Cathedral in Polotsk (rebuilt in the mid-18th century)

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  The Orsha Gospel Book was created in Polotsk during the town's period of decline in the 13th century.

See also

In Spanish: Principado de Pólatsk para niños