The Crown of a Thousand Years: a Millennium of Polish History.

King Władysław Jagiełło, King Jadwiga

 Introduction Jadwiga of Anjou was born on February 18, 1374 in Buda, the third daughter of the Hungarian King Louis and Elizabeth, Duchess of Bosnia. The young princess was provided with a thorough education – in addition to Hungarian and Polish, she also spoke Latin, Italian and German. Jadwiga (born 1374—died July 17, 1399, Kraków, Poland; canonized June 8, 1997; feast day February 28) was the queen of Poland (1384–99) whose marriage to Jogaila, grand duke of Lithuania (Władysław II Jagiełło of Poland), founded the centuries-long union of Lithuania and Poland.

Queen Jadwiga, also known as Hedwig, was the first woman to be crowned as a monarch of the Kingdom of Poland. Her reign from 1384 to 1399 marked a significant period in Polish history, characterized by her dedication to faith, education, and social justice.

King Władysław Jagiełło, King Jadwiga Krakow

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Born in 1374, Jadwiga was the daughter of Louis I of Anjou, King of Hungary and Poland. She became queen at a young age, and her coronation in 1384 was a pivotal moment, as it symbolized the transition of power to a female monarch in a male-dominated society.

Contributions and Achievements

Cultural Patronage: Jadwiga was a strong supporter of the arts and education. She founded the University of Kraków, which became a center of learning in Central Europe.

Religious Devotion: Known for her deep faith, she was a patroness of the Church and contributed to the establishment of numerous churches and monasteries.

Social Justice: Jadwiga was committed to helping the poor and marginalized. She used her influence to protect the rights of the weak and was known for her charitable works.

Political Alliances: Her marriage to Jogaila, the Grand Duke of Lithuania, in 1386 united Poland and Lithuania, strengthening both realms and leading to the formation of a powerful state.

King Jadwiga's Tomb

King Jadwiga skull

Legacy

Queen Jadwiga is remembered as one of the greatest monarchs in Polish history. Her reign is celebrated for its cultural and social advancements, and she is often referred to as a saint in the Catholic Church. Her spirit continues to inspire many in Poland today.

[At the turn of the 14th and 17th centuries, Kiev remained a small town, situated on the border of Christian and Muslim cultures. In 1596, under the Union of Lublin concluded between Lithuania and Poland, Kiev was incorporated into the Crown of the Kingdom of Poland.]

Conclusion

Queen Jadwiga's life and reign exemplify the qualities of a true leader—compassion, intelligence, and a commitment to the welfare of her people. Her legacy as a queen who ruled with grace and strength remains a significant part of Poland's rich history.

The latest image of King Jadwiga according to analyses and research

During a meeting with the Grand Master in Inowrocław, where they discussed the subject of the Order returning the Dobrzyń land, irritated to the highest degree by the arrogance and arrogance of the Teutonic dignitaries, she uttered the words [quoted years later by Jan Długosz in the pages of his chronicle]:

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Finally, Her Majesty King Jadwiga will speak

"Under the influence of some inspiration from heaven, she also added that as long as she lives, she will stop the terrible war (...), but let them know that after her death, by the most just judgment of God, they will meet with very heavy defeats because they plot against their lords, guardians and benefactors (...) and that for the benefits received, for the lands and properties granted, they repay with lawlessness."

"We are in the west, not in your wild forest! "

 King Jadwiga,👑👑👑

Happy millennium!🇵🇱🇵🇱🇵🇱