In Our Time

The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth

Oct 14, 2021
In this engaging discussion, historian Robert Frost, expert Katarzyna Kosior, and renowned scholar Norman Davies dive into the fascinating history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. They explore its formation and unique governance system that promoted parliamentary power over absolute monarchy. The guests highlight Jan Sobieski's pivotal role in defeating the Ottomans at Vienna and discuss the Commonwealth's cultural diversity. They also tackle the external pressures that led to its decline, and reflect on its lasting legacy in modern Poland and Lithuania.
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ANECDOTE

A Union of Power

  • Poland and Lithuania united in 1385 through the marriage of Grand Duke Jagiello and Queen Jadwiga.
  • This union lasted for an impressive 410 years, exceeding even the duration of England and Scotland's union.
INSIGHT

Vast Commonwealth

  • The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was vast, covering around a million square kilometers.
  • It encompassed modern-day Ukraine, Belarus, parts of Latvia, and more, making it larger than France or Germany.
INSIGHT

Diversity of Peoples

  • The Commonwealth was diverse, including Poles, Germans, Ruthenians, Tartars, and Jews within Poland.
  • Lithuania added Baltic peoples, Belarusians, and others, with Latin and Old Belarusian serving as common languages.
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