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Poland around 990 |
Both Mieszko nad Boleslaw participated in many wars against both Slavic tribes, Kievan Rus, Bohemians, Prussians and most importantly East Franks/Germans of Holy Roman Empire.
As very succesfull rulers they expanded Polish borders and reformed the country. Mieszko baptised to western Christianity in 966 and in many campaigns captured Pomerania, Masovia, Bohemia, Cracovia and Cities of Czerwińsk. In 972 he fought first known battle of Polish arms. Battle of Cedynia against Holy Roman Empire margrave Hodon of Sorbenmark. as described in Chronicle of Thietmar of Merseburg, germanic monk and bishop writing between 1012 and 1018. He was very critical about Poland as Boleslaw Chrobry was major oponent of Emperror and meddled successfully in internal politics of Holy Roman Empire. But despite his criticism battle of Cedyni is described as clear polish victory. battle itself was fought win two distinct phases. "When they meet Mieszko in day of St Geaorge (24th June) at first they were victorious, but later in place called Cidini Mieszko's brother defeated them, killing all of the best knight except margraves"
Mieszko's son Boleslaw The Breve fought constant and ultimately victorious wars against Empire between 1002-1018.
In 1025 closely before his death his position was strong enought for him to be crowned as first King of Poland.
Borders after his very successful rule were largest in medieval history of Poland. He claimed Moravia and Slovakia,marches of Lusatia, Sorbian Meissen, and the cities of Budziszyn (Bautzen) and Meissen, vassalised west Pomerania, and took control of Bohemia and part of Kiev Russia for a time.
Poland in 1025 |