Przemysł II

Przemysł II

19th century portrait by Jan Matejko.
King of Poland
Tenure 1295–1296
Coronation 26 June 1295 at Gniezno Cathedral
Predecessor Bolesław II the Bold
Successor Wenceslaus II of Bohemia
High Duke of Poland
Tenure 1290–1291
Predecessor Henry IV Probus
Successor Wenceslaus II of Bohemia
Duke of Greater Poland
Tenure 1279–1296
Predecessor Bolesław the Pious
Successor Władysław I the Elbow-high
Born (1257-10-14)14 October 1257
Poznań, Kingdom of Poland
Died 8 February 1296(1296-02-08) (aged 38)
Rogoźno, Kingdom of Poland
Burial at Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Poznań
Spouse Ludgarda of Mecklenburg
Rikissa of Sweden
Margaret of Brandenburg
Issue Ryksa Elisabeth
House Piast dynasty
Father Przemysł I of Greater Poland
Mother Elisabeth of Wrocław

Przemysł II (Polish: [psh'emyh's'w] also given in English and Latin as Premyslas or Premislaus or less properly Przemysław; 14 October 1257 – 8 February 1296), was the Duke of Poznań from 1257[1]-1279, of Greater Poland from 1279-1296, of Kraków from 1290-1291,[2] and Gdańsk Pomerania (Pomerelia) from 1294-1296, and then King of Poland from 1295 until his death. After a long period of Polish High Dukes and two nominal kings, he was the first to obtain the hereditary title of King, and thus to return Poland to the rank of Kingdom.

A member of the Greater Poland branch of the House of Piast as the only son of Duke Przemysł I and the Silesian princess Elisabeth, he was born posthumously; for this reason he was brought up at the court of his uncle Bolesław the Pious and received his own district to rule, the Duchy of Poznań, only in 1273. Six years later, after the death of his uncle, he also obtained the Duchy of Kalisz.

In the first period of his government, Przemysł II was involved only in regional affairs, first in close collaboration and then competing with the Duke of Wrocław, Henryk IV Probus. This policy caused the rebellion of the prominent Zaremba family and the temporary loss of Wieluń.

Working with the Archbishop of Gniezno, Jakub Świnka, he sought the unification of the principalities of the Piast dynasty. Unexpectedly, in 1290, under the will of Henryk IV Probus, he managed to obtain the Duchy of Kraków and with this the title of High Duke of Poland; however, not having sufficient support from the local nobility (who supported another member of the Piast dynasty, Władysław I the Elbow-high) and faced with the increasing threats of King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia, Przemysł II finally decided to step down from Lesser Poland, which was then under the rule of Přemyslid dynasty.

In 1293, thanks to the mediation of Archbishop Jakub Świnka, he joined into a close alliance with the Kuyavian princes Władysław the Elbow-high and Casimir II of Łęczyca. This alliance was anti-Bohemian, and his goal was to recover Kraków, then in the hands of King Wenceslaus II.

After the death of Duke Mestwin II in 1294, and according to the Treaty of Kępno signed in 1282, Przemysł II inherited Pomerelia. This strengthened his position and enabled his coronation as King of Poland. The ceremony was held on 26 June 1295 in Gniezno, and was performed by his ally Archbishop Jakub Świnka.

Only nine months later, on 8 February 1296, Przemysł II was murdered during a failed kidnapping attempt made by men of the Margraves of Brandenburg, with some help from the Polish noble families of Nałęcz and Zaremba.

Birth, name and nickname

Przemysł II was the fifth child and only son of Duke Przemysł I of Greater Poland and his wife Elisabeth, daughter of Duke Henry II the Pious of Silesia.

According to the Chronicle of Greater Poland (pl: Kronika wielkopolska),[3] Przemysl II was named after his father, who had died four months before his birth, on 4 June 1257. Form the name of the ruler of Greater Poland in the days of his contemporaries certainly sounded Przemysł (possibly Przemyśl), who could substantially the same as "clever" or "intelligent". However, due to the fact that the word "Przemysł" (en: Industry) means production of a good or service within an economy today, it's reasonable to be considered that his name could be a valid form from Przemysław, especially as this version is undoubtedly more medieval (occurs at the beginning of the 14th century).[4] Another name under which the Duke of Greater Poland was probably known, following the indications of the Roczniku kołbackim,[5] is Peter (pl: Piotr), but Oswald Balzer considered this an obvious mistake.[6] The only historian who recognized the name Peter as authentic was K. Górski.[7]

No sources about contemporary rulers provided information about a nickname. Only in sources related to the Teutonic Order from 1335 does he have the nickname Kynast.[8] In current historiography he is sometimes nicknamed Posthumus (pl: Pogrobowiec),[9] but this has not been universally accepted.

Przemysl II was born on 14 October 1257 in Poznań. It is known that he was born in the morning, because according to the Chronicle of Greater Poland, when Dowager Duchess Elisabeth gave birth to a son, the vicars and canons of the city were singing morning prayers.[10] At the news of the birth, the local clergy chanted the Te Deum laudamus.[11]

Shortly after his birth, the prince was baptized by the Bishop of Poznań, Bogufał III of Czerniejewo.

Under the tutelage of his uncle Bolesław the Pious (1257–1273)

Childhood

At the time of is birth, Przemysł II was the nominal ruler of the Duchy of Poznań. The guardianship of him and the duchy, probably alongside with his mother Elisabeth,[12] was taken by his uncle Duke Bolesław the Pious and his wife, the Hungarian princess Jolenta (Helena). In consequence the prince remained at the court in Poznań, where his mother raised him. On 16 January 1265 Dowager Duchess Elisabeth died at her estate in Modrze, and after that the total care of the orphan Przemysł II and his sisters was provided by their uncle and aunt.

Very little information exists about the education given to Przemysł II. Diplomatic sources have retained only the names of two of his teachers: Dragomir and Przybysław.[13] It is assumed (although without any direct evidence) that the prince had some knowledge of at least Latin in speech and writing.[14]

War with Brandenburg. Expedition to Neumark

Przemysł II as imagined by Aleksander Lesser.

The next mention of Przemysł II came in 1272, when his uncle Duke Bolesław the Pious appointed him nominal commander of an armed expedition against Brandenburg. The real commanders of the expedition were the Governor of Poznan, Przedpełk and the Castellan of Kalisz, Janko. The expedition was launched on 27 May; in addition to the specific purpose to acquire and destroy the newly built fortress in Strzelce Krajeńskie (or, in case it proved to be impossible, at least the desolation of Neumark), the young prince wa to be educated in the art of war. The project, as was detailed in the Chronicle of Greater Poland,[15] failed completely, because the city of Strzelce Krajeńskie after a short, but extremely fierce battle, was defeated and captured by the Greater Poland army. According to the Chronicle, while gaining command of the fortress, Przemysł II ordened the slaughter of the defenders, and only a few managed to save the life of the prince from the angered citizens.[16]

Shortly after completing the expedition and with the majority of his forces in his way back, Przemysł II received a confidential message that the fortress of Drezdenko was protected by just a few German knights. The young prince, despite the fact that only had a part of his forces, decided to made a quick attack. The complete surprised opponents, fearing the same fate of Strzelce Krajeńskie, decided to surrender the fortress in exchange for a full pardon. After this, Przemysł II took the fortress in the name of his uncle and could triumphantly return home.[17]

In the same year, Przemysł II concluded his first alliance with Duke Mestwin II of Pomerelia. At first ally of the Margraves of Brandenburg, Mestwin II could expelled his brother and uncles from Pomerania and became sole ruler in 1271, but shortly after he was defeated and even imprisoned by them; this caused him to promised the province of Gdańsk to Margrave Conrad of Brandenburg in exchange for aid against his relatives and local nobility, who allied with them. Despite Mestwin II retained the feudal sovereignty over the territory, the Brandenburg Margraviate still occupied the main castles and fortress of the city even after the restoration of Mestwin II in the ducal throne. With his knowledge that his forces are too weak against Brandenburg, the Pomeranian Duke decided then to made an alliance with the Greater Poland rulers, Bolesław the Pious (who probably was his first-cousin)[18] and Przemysł II.

The Greater Poland-Pomerania alliance ended up in regaining the fortresses in Gdańsk and the complete expulsion of the Brandenburg forces from Pomerania. Although soon after Mestwin II decided to conclude a separate peace with the Margraviate, the alliance with Greater Poland signed in 1272 remained in force.[19] The continuous threat of Brandenburg and the uncertainty of the alliance with Mestwin II, caused that Bolesław the Pious began to seek new allies in the case of war, and with this be able to had a decisive assistance. For this purpose, Bolesław decided to seek an agreement with Duke Barnim I of Pomerania.

Marriage with Ludgarda of Mecklenburg

As a part of the newly alliance with Pomerania, was arranged the marriage between Przemysł II and Barnim I's granddaughter Ludgarda,[20] daughter of Henry I the Pilgrim, Lord of Mecklenburg and Anastasia of Pomerania. Apparently, the young prince was pleased with his young bride,[21] following the writes of the Chronicle of Greater Poland:

"And when he saw her, he liked her person. And there in the country of the said Duke Barnim, in the city of Szczecin, took her as a wife. And this happened in his sixteenth year of life (1273)."[22]

After the wedding the couple was briefly separated. Przemysł II came to Greater Poland, where together with his uncle prepared the ceremonial arrival of his wife to Poznań. Finally, together with his uncle, his aunt Jolenta, Bishop Mikołaj I of Poznań and other Greater Poland dignitaries the prince went to the border frontier in Drezdenko, where solemnly brought Ludgarda to her new home. The alliance between Greater Poland and Pomerania was directly against Brandenburg and in 1274, resulted in more than one retaliatory expedition against Greater Poland; taken by surprise, the princes watched how without major obstacles the Brandenburg army came to Poznan, and burned the main fortress of the city.[23] Only after this, the Greater Poland knighthood was hastily organized and could expelled the invasors.

Independent Duke of Poznań (1273–1279)

Rebellion against his uncle

In 1273 Przemysł II became an independent Duke of Poznań. The circumstances around this event are not entirely clear.[24] On the basis of only one known source, a document dated 1 October 1273, Przemysł II began to use the title of "dux Poloniae" (Duke of [Greater] Poland).[25] Additional news where noticed in a document issued on 25 August 1289, in which the Greater Poland ruler gave the villages of Węgielnice and Łagiewnice to the major of Gniezno, Piotr Winiarczyk, in gratitude for helping him to escape from the Gniezno fortress (however, when the incident took place wasn't mentioned in the document).[26] In light from modern historiography, the events preceding the issue of this document could be as follows: Przemysł II, unhappy with the prolonged guardianship of his uncle, and with the support of some powerful Greater Poland magnates[27] decided, regardless of the consecuences, to assert his rights over Poznań. It's unclear at this stage whether there has been any armed incidents; in any case the demands of Przemysł II became so insistent that ended in his imprisonment in the Gniezno castle. It can be assumed[28] that there wasn't a prison in the proper sense of the word, but under house arrest, during which Przemysł II wasn't too rigorously guarded, since the prince was able to escape from the castle without any outside help. Evidenced by the document issued to Piotr Winiarczyk, in which the writer used the phrase "qui de nocte consurgens", which allows to assume that the clerk was asleep and was completely surprised by the arrival of the prince. In any case, the real cause of this grant of lands given to Winiarczyk by Przemysł II apparently wasn't sure, and probably only equipping him with sufficient means to escape.[29]

Alliance with Henryk IV Probus

After escaping from Gniezno, Przemysł II probably went on Lower Silesia under the care of Henryk IV Probus, Duke of Wrocław. This help was evidenced by the conclusion of an alliance (in unknown date) directed against "any man and Polish prince" with the exception of Duke Władysław of Opole and King Ottokar II of Bohemia.[30]

An alliance between Przemysł II and Henry IV placed Bolesław the Pious in a very uncomfortable situation, because he being a member of Pro-Hungarian coalition of Polish princes (in addition of him, included Bolesław V the Chaste, Leszek II the Black and Konrad II of Masovia) could not remain indifferent to this close cooperation with the Duke of Wrocław, which was the leader of the Pro-bohemian coalition (where other Silesian princes also belonged).[31]

This alliance probably probably forced Bolesław the Pious to reconsider his threatment to his nephew and finally granted him the Duchy of Poznań in 1273.[32] Przemysł II, in exchange, not only interrupted for a time his cooperation with the Duke of Wrocław, but decided to support his uncle in the expedition against Władysław of Opole (ally of King Ottokar II and Henryk IV Probus), in retaliation for the attempts of the Opole ruler to overthrow the government of Bolesław V the Chaste in Lesser Poland during the first half of 1273.[33] Thus, with high probability it can be concluded that by this timem the conflict between Przemysł II and his uncle for power has been finally resolved.

About the rule of Przemysł II over Poznań exist very little information. From the period 1273-1279, are known only four documents issued by the prince, including two issued jointly with his uncle Bolesław the Pious.

Kidnapping of Henryk IV Probus by Bolesław II Rogatka. Battle of Stolec

Henry IV Probus, Duke of Wrocław. Codex Manesse, ca. 1305.

Przemysł II's foreign politics are more known during this time. His friendly relations with Henry IV Probus survived, despite the momentary interruption, even after 1273. This alliance was maintained without significant changes, and only as a result of the events that taken place on 18 February 1277 in the town of Jelcz near Wrocław,[34] the Duke of Poznań was forced to explicitly stood at the side of the Wrocław ruler, his cousin.[35] Henryk IV was kidnapped and imprisoned in the Legnica castle by his uncle, Duke Bolesław II Rogatka. The pretext used by the Duke of Legnica to made this were the demands of the Duke of Wrocław over one-third of his domains, which, according to him, were part of his inheritance as legacy from both his father Henry III the White (died in 1266) and uncle Władysław (died in 1270). Bolesław II used in his favor the political weakeness of Henryk IV's guardian, King Otakar II of Bohemia, who in September 1276 was forced to submit to King Rudolph I of Germany.

Przemysł II, faithful to his previous agreements with Henry IV Probus, decided to stand at the head of the knights of Poznań, Wrocław (which generally are loyal to his ruler) and Głogów (commaned by their Duke Henry III) and marched to Legnica in order to obtain the freedom of Henry IV.[36] The Legnica army was commanded by Bolesław II and his eldest son Henry V the Fat. The battle took place on 24 April 1277 in the village of Stolec near Ząbkowice Śląskie,[37] and, according to modern historiography, was extremely bloody and lasted almost the entire day. Initially it seemed that the coalition Poznań-Głogów-Wroclaw would had the complete victory. The situation became even more favorable to them when Bolesław II escape from the battlefield. However, his son Henry V decided to stay until the end, and in this desperate situation encouraged his knights to fight, and finally obtain the victory; to complete the success, even Przemysł II and Henry III were taken prisoners.[38] However, according to Jan Dlugosz in his chronicle, for the Dukes of Legnica this was a Pyrrhic victory, since "died in this battle so countless number of people that the knights of Legnica, although the winner, they could mock the vanquished, because the bloody paid for victory".[39] The imprisonment of the Duke of Poznań, if really occurs, was briefly. The argument against this was noted in the fact that is not recorded any losses for Przemysł II to pay for his release.

Whatever the truth was, by 5 July 1277 Przemysł II was in Lubin.[40] The release of Henryk IV Probus took place some days later, on 22 July, after the surrender to Bolesław II of 1/5 of his Duchy, with the town of Środa Śląska at the head.[41] Bolesław the Pious was against the participation of his nephew in this conflict, not only refused to support him militarily but also invaded the borders of the Duchy of Wrocław, trying to assert financial claims. Moreover, at this point, he gave his daughter Elizabeth in marriage to Henry V the Fat.[42]

In additional fact for a quick end to this conflict among the Silesian princes was the personal intervention of King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who in preparation for his final confrontation with King Rudolph I of Habsburg German needed to calm the situation in Poland.[43]

Cooperation with King Ottokar II of Bohemia

In September 1277 King Ottokar II held in the border city of Opava a meeting of Polish princes. Sources doesn't specify either the exact date or the participants. Historians speculate only that they could be: Henryk IV Probus, Bolesław V the Chaste, Leszek II the Black, Władysław of Opole with his sons, Henry III of Głogów and Przemysł II.[44] They are also known political decisions that were made there, but taking into account the subsequent events, is sure that there agreed the issue of a military cooperation against Germany.

The decisive battle between Ottokar II and Rudolph I took place on 25 August 1278 in the known Battle on the Marchfeld. As many 1/3 of the Czech army were supposed to be allied with the Polish troops. Przemysł II wasn't among them, because he was then in Ląd.[45] However this doesn't mean that, as historians speculate, he didn't send troops to the Bohemian King as was planned.[46]

Improving relations with Bolesław the Pious. Congress of Ląd

Modern depiction of Przemysł II from a historical book by Józef Ignacy Kraszewski, 1888.

The apparent difference of interests between Przemysł II and his uncle Bolesław the Pious in the Silesian and Czech affairs, didn't disturbed their good relations. Evidence of this was the common issuance of documents, such as 6 January 1278.[47]

Another proof of the close cooperation between uncle and nephew in the last years of Bolesław the Pious' life are in the events that taken place in mid-1278 (probably in August):[48] Bolesław, using the weakeness of the Margraviate of Brandenburg during the fight between Ottokar II and Rudolph I, in only eight days attacked Neumark and advanced until Myślibórz, where his troops defeated Margrave Otto V the Long.[49]

Przemysł II didn't participate in this expedition (at least directly, according to Jan Długosz[50]), because at that moment he was in Ląd, according to a document dated 24 August 1278.[51][52] Certainly by the command of his uncle,[53] Przemysł II acted as mediator in the dispute between Dukes Leszek II the Black and Ziemomysł of Inowrocław and his subjects.[54]

Przemysł II was able to end the dispute between Leszek and Ziemomysł with their local nobility definitively. The Duke of Inowrocław had to agree to two conditions: firstly, in his court all the noble families would be well-tolerated and respected, and secondly, he had put a distance from his German advisors. In addition Ziemomysł also have to accept the surrender of the towns of Kruszwica and Radziejów to Bolesław the Pious and Wyszogród to Duke Mestwin II of Pomerelia.[55] The friendly relations between Przemysł II and the Kuyavia Dukes proved to be durable and survived to the end of his reign.[56] The expedition against Brandenburg in 1278 was the last important event in Bolesław the Pious' life. "Maximus trumphator de Teutonicis" (in: The highest winner on the Germans[57]), died on 13[58] or 14[59] April 1279 in Kalisz. Without male heirs, shortly before his death declared his nephew his only and legitimate heir and urged him to take care of his wife Jolenta-Helena and his two underage daughters, Hedwig and Anna.[60]

Duke of Greater Poland (1279–1290)

Addition of Greater Poland to his domains

The inheritance of Greater Poland by Przemysł II went peacefully. The union proved to be durable, and with the exception of its borders with the Duchy of Wrocław, survived throughout his reign. However, despite the personal unification of the territory, the division between Kalisz and Gniezno persisted almost to the end of the 18th century. Later, in times of Casimir III the Great, there was also a visible division between the old voivodeships of Poznań and Kalisz.

Cooperation with the local nobility and relations with his neighbors

An analysis of the contemporary documents[61] showed that in the first period of his rule over all Greater Poland, Przemysł II relied on the following nobles: Jan Gerbicz, Bishop of Poznań; members of the powerful noble family of Zaremba: Andrzej, chancellor of Kalisz (since 1288 the first "cancellerius tocius Polonia") and later Bishop of Poznań; Sędziwój, chamberlain of Gniezno; Beniamin, voivode of Poznań; and Arkembold, voivode of Gniezno. Other close collaborators were Wojciech Krystanowic z Lubrzy, chamberlain of Poznań; Tomisław Nałęcz, Poznań castellan; Maciej, Kalisz castellan; Stefan, Wieluń castellan, Mikołaj Łodzia, Poznań judge; Wincenty Łodzia, chancellor of Poznań; and the brothers Tylon, Jaśko and Mikołaj, three notaries of middle-class origin.[62]

During the years 1279-1281, Przemysł II had a rather friendly (or at least neutral) relationship with all of his immediate neighbors.[63]

Meeting with Henry IV Probus and imprisonment of Przemysł II. Loss of Wieluń

The Duke of Greater Poland felt quite safe when he was invited to a meeting organized by Henry IV Probus. The meeting took place probably on 9 February 1281 in one of the Silesian villages;[64] however, the Duke of Wrocław had another plan - he broke all the rules of hospitality, imprisoned the three princes who where invited (Przemysł II, Henry V the Fat of Legnica, and Henry III of Głogów), and forced them to make political concessions.[65] This action was made even more outrageous by the fact that only four years earlier Przemysł II and Henry III risked their lives and armies to save Henry IV Probus in the Battle of Stolec, which ended with victory of Henry V the Fat, the third guest of this meeting. Historians speculate[66] that the reason for the Duke of Wrocław to make this radical move was probably his desire to increase his influence over the neighboring principalities as part of his own plans for a royal coronation.[67]

Finally, after brief resistance, Przemysł II was forced to give the strategic Lesser Polish land of Wieluń (also known as Ruda) in order to obtain his release, because Henry IV wanted a direct connection between Wrocław and Lesser Poland. The imprisonment of Przemysł II did not last too long, because on 3 March he was documented to have been in Poznań.[68] Henry III and Henry V the Fat were both forced to grant much larger territorial concessions. In addition, the three Dukes agreed that upon the request of the Duke of Wrocław they would each give him military aid in the amount of thirty lancers. So this was, in practice, an act of homage.

The rapid release of Przemysł II could have been aided by the intervention of Leszek II the Black and Mestwin II of Pomerelia.[69] The reason for the arrival of Mestwin II to Greater Poland, in addition to helping his imprisoned ally, was to settle the claims of the Teutonic Order over parts of Pomerelia and to resolve the issue of succession after his own death; from his first marriage, Mestwin II had only two daughters, Catherine and Euphemia.[70] The situation was further complicated by the fact that Mestwin II gained the rule over all the Duchy of Pomerelia after a war against his uncles, Racibor and Sambor II, who in revenge for this willed his possessions (including Białogard and Gniew) to the Teutonic Order upon his death in 1278.[71]

Treaty of Kępno. Przemysł II, heir of Gdańsk Pomerania

Main article: Treaty of Kępno
Memorial stone in the city of Kępno commemorating the treaty between Przemysł II and Mestwin II.

The first talks between Przemysł II and Mestwin II about the latter's succession probably occurred around 1281, on occasion of the arrival of the Duke of Pomerelia in Greater Poland to visit the Benedictine Abbey in Lubin.[72] Although there is no direct evidence that Przemysł II was also in the Abbey in person, the presence of Jan I of Wysokowce, Bishop of Poznań and other Greater Poland dignitaries suggest that a compromise was then suggested. At the beginning of the next year Mestwin II again went to southern Greater Poland, in order to talk with the Papal legate Filippo di Fermo about his dispute with the Teutonic Order over the possession of the towns of Gniew and Białogard. The legate stayed in Milicz, which belonged to the Diocese of Wrocław. Due to the friendly relations of Przemysł II (and thus his ally Mestwin II) with Henry IV Probus, the Duke of Pomerania decided to stop at the frontier village of Kępno (also in the Diocese of Wrocław), and waited to hear the legate's verdict.[73]

In Kępno, Mestwin II probably expected the arrival of the Duke of Greater Poland.[74] Here, on 15 February 1282, a treaty was concluded between Przemysł II and Mestwin II, which secured the future unification of Gdańsk Pomerania and Greater Poland.[75] Witnesses in the signed document, among others, were Pomeranian Voivode Waysil, Poznań voivode Beniamin, Gniezno voivode Arkembold, Poznań judge Mikołaj, Kalisz judge Andrzej, and the Dominican monk Piotr (later Prince-Bishop of Cammin from 1296-1298), who was probably the person who wrote the text. In Kępno were certainly also other more important dignitaries of both districts (unlikely to Mestwin II, who was accompanied by only one voivode).

There are ongoing disputes between historians about the exact nature of the Treaty of Kępno. According to some historians (for example Balzer[76] and Wojciechowski[77]) the treaty was a classic pact of mutual inheritance, in which the one who survives the other inherits his territory. According to others (like Kętrzyński, Baszkiewicz, Zielinska, Nowacki and Swieżawski), it was a one-sided arrangement or donation for life from Mestwin II to Przemysł II (called donatio inter vivos).[78] Another theory was posed by Janusz Bieniak.[79] He believed that Mestwin II simply paid homage for his lands to the ruler of Greater Poland, who became the de jure ruler of the territory. Currently, the second theory is the most accepted, mainly because it agrees entirely with the contemporary sources. Since 1282 Przemysł II formally used the title of "dux Pomeranie" (Duke of Pomerania), but during Mestwin II's life he renounced his claim to the rights over Gdańsk Pomerania (Pomerelia).

As was customary, the treaty would have to be approved by the nobles and knights of both lands. The meeting between the nobility of Pomerelia and Greater Poland took place between 13–15 September 1284 in the town of Nakło, where they confirmed the rights of Przemysł II over Gdańsk Pomerania.[80] The unification of Pomerelia and Greater Poland was not the only the decision made by Przemysł II and Mestwin II. The favors shown by the Duke of Pomerelia to the powerful witnesses of the agreement from Greater Poland showed that they were also keenly interested in the close integration of the two lands.[81]

Sudden death of Ludgarda of Mecklenburg, first wife of Przemysł II

Przemysł II depicted by Jan Matejko, 19th century.

In December 1283 in Gniezno, at the age of 22 or 23 years died unexpectedly Ludgarda, wife of Przemysł II.[82] Relations between the spouses for some time before her death weren't certainly the best. Perhaps even took place a separation between them. The reason for this was the supposed infertility of Ludgarda, more apparent after ten years of marriage. The actual period of marital intercourse between the spouses given their age (both are quite young at the time of their wedding) could actually be shorter. Indeed, there is no direct proof about Ludgarda's barrenness beyond the lack of offspring; in that times, the childlessness in marriage was usually women's fault, although in this case (due to the birth of a daughter from Przemysł II's second marriage), it seems more likely. Wasn't a real surprise when began to emerge against the Duke of Greater Poland accusations of the suspected murder of his wife.[83] It must be noted, however, that no contemporary source mention this, a fact more surprising because Przemysł II had bitter enemies who certainly would use this crime against him. Also any reactions from church or public penance would noticed.

The first suggestion about Ludgarda's mysterious death came from the 14th century Rocznik Traski:

In the same year died unexpectedly the spouse of Przemysł Duke of Greater, the daughter of Lord Nicholas of Mecklenburg named Lukarda. Nobody could figure out how she died.[84]

The chronicler of the Rocznik Traski doesn't suggest an unnatural death for the Duchess, but leave some doubts about it. The Rocznik małopolski, by the other hand, spoke clearly about Ludgarda's murder in the Szamotuły code, in which added further information about this event:

Regardless of the historian (I might add) we have seen in our youth in the streets of Gniezno a wooden chapel, which in the vernacular lenguage is called vestibule, where exist two great stones in the shape of millstones reddened with the blood of that lady, who are completely worn and faded, and were deposited in her tomb at Gniezno cathedral.[85]

Another source who describe the death of Ludgarda was the Kronika oliwska, written in the mid-14th century by Abbot Stanisław. On the pages of his work the author clearly showed aversion towards the Samborid dynasty, rulers of Pomerelia until the end of the 13th century. This aversion is also transferred to Przemysł II:

When Prince Mestwin was buried in Oliwa, Przemysł arrived in Gdańsk and took possession of the duchy of Pomerania. Then he received from the Holy See the crown of the Polish Kingdom. He lived another year and was captured by the men of the Margrave of Brandenburg, Waldemar, who killed him to avenge the holy Lukarda his wife, suspecting that he had strangled her.[86]

It's unknown why the Margraves of Brandenburg would avenge the murder of Ludgarda, since this could placed them in a dangerous position, considering their alliance with Pomerelia-Greater Poland. The reports of the Kronika oliwska were repeated in Mecklenburg by chronicler Ernst von Kirchberg,[87] a wandering bard from Thuringia, who around 1378 appears at the court of Duke Albert II of Mecklenburg (Ludgarda's nephew) on occasion to his wedding. Shortly after von Kirchberg wanted to showed his thanks for the Duke's hospitality and wrote a long rhyming poem, in which he also mentions Ludgarda. The story of the chronicler was as follows: Przemysł II, at the instigation of his mother Elizabeth of Wrocław (who is well known had died in 1265, long time before the marriage of her son) requested his wife for a divorce and return her to Mecklenburg. In view of her refusal because "What God has joined, men must not divide", Przemysł II decided her imprisonment in the Tower, where he tried to persuade her again to accepted a divorce. Finally, due to her obstinacy, Przemysł II had killed her with his own dagger. In this event was helped by one of his ministers, who finished the deed suffocating a dying Ludgarda with a towel.

The last important source for the history of Ludgarda are Annals of Jan Długosz,[88] who wrote about this events almost two centuries after (around 1480). Długosz was the first chronicler who locates Poznań as the place of Ludgarda's death. Besides, he established her date of death on 14 December, who is corroborated by contemporary sources as a date of her burial. Modern historiography had believed in the complete innocence of Przemysł II in the sudden death of his wife.[89]

Based on the findings of Brygida Kürbis, it can be concluded that the 10 years marriage of Przemysł II and Ludgarda wasn't successful, and over time became more obvious to everyone that the Ducal couple was unable to had children, although this couldn't be completely certain, because Ludgarda in 1283 was at most only 23 years. Nevertheless, is assumed that Przemysł II's growing aversion to his wife because of her infertility was a fact well known by all. So when in mid-December 1283[90] Ludgarda died suddenly and loneliness (evidenced by her death in Gniezno, away from Przemysł II's court in Poznań), among people arose suspicion that the death of the Duchess was unnatural. Nobody, however, had evidence of this, but arosed some doubts. Contributed to rumors was the fact that in the 13th century medical knowledge was negligible, and therefore often sudden death of a young person interpreted as unnatural. In addition, the Duke's rejection for a proper mourning to his wife, who was universally liked, increased the suspicions against Przemysł II.

Election of Jakub Świnka as Archbishop of Gniezno

Jakub Świnka, Archbishop of Gniezno, from a book illumination, bef. 1535

On 18 December 1283, a few days after Ludgarda's funeral, Greater Poland witnessed an extremely important event for later history of Poland: the consecration of Jakub Świnka as Archbishop of Gniezno. The event took place in the Franciscan church in Kalisz and was extremely important because after twelve years (since the death in 1271 of Archbishop Janusz Tarnowa) Poland wasn't a full-recognized prelate.[91] Jakub Świnka received the papal nomination on 30 July 1283, however, because he was only a deacon, was needed to give him an ordination. This ceremony took place on 18 December and a day later Jakub received the episcopal consecration. At the ceremony, according to sources, assisted five Polish bishops and Przemysł II, who gave the new Archbishop an expensive ring as a gift.[92]

Little is known about the origin and early years of Jakub Świnka, except for his mention in a document issued by Bolesław the Pious.[93][94] As Archbishop of Gniezno, the cooperation between him and Przemysł II was excellent. One example of this was the fact that he appeared as witness in 14 diplomats[95] issued by the Duke of Greater Poland, including the confirmation of all his existing privileges and the permission to mint his own coins in Żnin and the castellany of Ląd.[96]

War against Western Pomerania. Congress of Sieradz

In the first half of 1284 Przemysł II was involved on the side of Denmark and Brandenburg in an armed conflict against Western Pomerania and Rügen. Details about this event are little, and the peace, which was concluded on 13 August 13, didn't bring any real benefits to Greater Poland.[97]

Much more possitive effects could bring to Przemysł II his friendly relations with Leszek II the Black, Duke of Kraków, with had a meeting in Sieradz on 20 February 1284. Details about the reason and talks of this reunion are unknown, but they would be productive, since Przemysł II decided to give the Kraków voivode Żegota three villages (Nieczajno, Wierzbiczany and Lulin).[98] This good relations were maintained for some time, since seven months later, on 6 September, the Duke of Greater Poland mediated in a dispute between Leszek II the Black and his brother Casimir II of Łęczyca with the Teutonic Order.[99] Przemysł II also didn't lose sight of the Pomerelian affairs, because on 13 September he had a new meeting with Mestwin II in the city of Nakło.[100]

Betrayal of Sędziwój Zaremba; loss of Ołobok

According to the Rocznik Traski (based probably in older sources now missed), on 28 September 1284, Kalisz was burned.[101] This soon caused a series of events which threatened the power of Przemysł II. Now governor of Kalisz and in the city at the time of the fire, Sędziwój Zaremba, fearing the consequences, decided to take the Kalisz castle (apparently not damaged in the fire)[102] and give it to Henry IV Probus.[103] At the news of the events of Kalisz, Przemysł II reacted instantly. No later than 6 October, as attested by a document issued in that time, Przemysł II was at the head of the Greater Poland knights under the city walls. In view of the refusal of submission, the duke ordered the siege. It is unknown how prolonged was this siege, but certainly soon due to the reluctance to fight from the rebels (knights and nobles probably feared that Przemysł II, after the capture of the castle, would not spare nobody), the duke agreed to negotiate with them. Eventually, Przemysł II regained his castle of Kalisz, but he had to give the newly built castle in Ołobok to Henryk IV Probus.[104] There is no certainty that the betrayal of Sędziwój Zaremba was an isolated incident or part of a wider conspiracy from the Zaremba family. However, it can be assumed that the duke didn't believe in a familiar conspiracy because most of Sędziwój's relatives remained in their posts even after 1284.[105] Another source supporting this is a document issued on 6 October (and thus during the period of siege) where the voivode of Poznań Beniamin Zaremba appears as a witness, and therefore had to remain in the inner circle of Przemysł II.

Przemysł II's change of attitude against Beniamin occurred in 1285. Due to little contemporary information, the cause is unknown. The Rocznik Traski only pointed that the Duke of Greater Poland imprisoned both Sędziwój and Beniamin.[106] At the end apparently they were treated very gently, because Mestwin II of Pomerelia not only restored them their previous post but also part of the property that was confiscated them.[107] Moreover, Beniamin appeared again in the circle of Przemysł II around 1286.[108]

Marriage with Rikissa of Sweden

In 1285 Przemysł II decided to marry again. The chosen bride was Rikissa, daughter of the deposed King Valdemar of Sweden and Sophia of Denmark, daughter of the King Eric IV. Due to the lack of contacts between Greater Poland and Sweden, the negotiations were probably concluded through the mediation of the House of Ascania.[109] The marriage by proxy took place in the Swedish city of Nyköping on 11 October 1285; in the ceremony, the Duke of Greater Poland was represented by the notary Tylon, who a year received from Przemysł II the village of Giecz in gratitude for his services.[110] It's unknown when and where the formal wedding between Przemysł II and Rikissa took place, or who administered the sacrament of marriage: could be either Bishop Jan of Poznań or Jakub Świnka, Archbishop of Gniezno.[111]

Congresses of Łęczyca and Sulejów. Consecration of a new Bishop of Poznań

The year 1285 brought to Przemysł II other successes: in January, Archbishop Jakub of Gniezno convened orchestrated a metting in the town of Łęczyca, where was also confirmed the excommunication against the main oponet of the Greater Poland ruler, Henryk IV Probus;[112] and on 15 August assisted to another princely meeting, this time with Władysław I the Elbow-high and Ziemomysł of Inowrocław in the town of Sulejów, where probably was discussed the rebellion against Leszek II the Black and his deposition in favor of Konrad II of Czersk.[113]

In May 1286 after the death of the Bishop of Poznań Jan Wyszkowic, was consecrated his successor Jan Gerbicz.[114] The cooperation between the new Bishop and Przemysł II was good, although some historians wonder why Bishop Gerbicz later was surnamed "traditor" (traitor).[115]

Recovery of Ołobok. Tripartite alliance between Greater Poland, Pomerelia and Western Pomerania

According to Jan Długosz, on 14 June 1287 some Greater Poland knights and (as was suggested by the chronicler), without the knowledge of his ruler,[116] made a surprise attack to Ołobok, won the castle and returned the district to Greater Poland.[117] Henryk IV Probus then decided not made any armed conflict and accepted the loss; in unknown circumstances, around this time Przemysł II also regained Wieluń (lost in 1281).[118] It can be assumed that the attitude of the Duke of Wrocław was part of the concessions associated with his plans to obtain the throne of Kraków, and wanted in this way to ensure that benevolent neutrality of the Duke of Greater Poland.

Some months later, on 23 November in the city of Słupsk took place a meeting between Przemysł II, Mestwin II of Pomerelia and Bogislaw IV of Pomerania. There, they entered into and agreement of mutual cooperation and help against any opponent, especially the rulers of Brandenburg and Vitslav II, Prince of Rügen. The agreement also guaranteed the inheritance of Gdańsk by Bogislaw IV or his descendants in the case of the deaths of both Mestwin II and Przemysł II.[119] In addition, this treaty contributed to a significantly deterioration of the relations between Greater Poland and the House of Ascania, rulers of Brandenburg.[120] The treaty was subsequently confirmed at a meeting in Nakło in August 1291.

First coalition of Piast Princes. Relations with Leszek II the Black. Birth of his daughter Ryksa

According to the theory of historian Oswald Balzer, around 1287 and by inspiration of Archbishop Jakub of Gniezno, took place a treaty of mutual inheritance between Leszek II the Black, Henryk IV Probus, Przemysł II and Henry III of Głogów.[121] Balzer's theory gained immense popularity among historians.[122] This view is refuted by Władysław Karasiewicz[123] and Jan Baszkiewicz.[124] However, doesn't completely exclude the possibility that during this period could be concluded any agreement between Przemysł II and Henryk IV Probus, evidenced by the fact that the Duke of Wrocław voluntary returned of lands Ołobock and Wieluń to Przemysł II in his will.[125]

On 14 May 1288 at the Congress of Rzepce the alliance between Przemysł II and Mestwin II was further strengthened.[126] In July, the Duke of Greater Poland visited the seriously ill Leszek II the Black in Kraków. The matters discussed in this visit are unknown.

The first and only child of Przemysł II was born in Poznań on 1 September 1288: a daughter, named Ryksa, who later became in Queen consort of Bohemia and Poland as a wife of Wenceslaus II and after his death, of Rudolph III of Habsburg.[127] The news of the birth of her daughter were also the latest informations about Duchess Rikissa. She certainly died after that date and before 13 April 1293, when Przemysł II contracted her third and last marriage.[128] It seems that Przemysł II had deep and strong feelings for his second wife. This is evidenced not only by the fact that he give their daughter the name of the mother, but also by a document issued on 19 April 1293 where he ceded to the Bishopric of Poznań the village of Kobylniki as payment for a lamp lit eternally at Rikissa's tomb.[129]

Death of Leszek II the Black. Battle of Siewierz

On 30 September 1288 died childless Leszek II the Black, Duke of Kraków, Sandomierz and Sieradz.[130] His death launched in Lesser Poland the outbreak of war. Kraków knighthood are in favor of Bolesław II of Płock, while Sandomierz knighthood supported his brother Konrad II of Czersk; by the other hand, the middle-class people favored Henryk IV Probus.[131]

At the beginning of 1289, Silesian troops marched under the command of the Duke of Wrocław allies: Bolko I of Opole and Przemko of Ścinawa. They counted with the support of the castellan of Kraków Sulk the Bear (pl: Sułk z Niedźwiedzia), who had the control over Wawel castle.[132] In response, a coalition against them was formed by Bolesław II of Płock, Casimir II of Łęczyca and Władysław I the Elbow-high.[133] Surprisingly, Przemysł II joined to them, ended all his prior arrangements with the ruler of Wrocław.

The Wrocław-Opole-Ścinawa army then realized that they didn't have sufficient forces to resist the coalition Greater Poland-Kuyavia-Masovia, and decided to retreat to Silesia, where they gather more troops. The retreating troops were quickly followed and finally faced in the town of Siewierz in Bytom on 26 February 1289 where a bloody battle took place and culminating in a full victory for Przemysł II's allies. In the battle Przemko of Ścinawa was killed and Bolko I of Opole captured.[134] After the battle Władysław I the Elbow-high took Kraków, and Przemysł II withdrew with his troops, making a separate truce with Henryk IV Probus.[135] However, in 1289 Henryk IV Probus took up arms against Kraków, removing Władysław I the Elbow-high to the government of Sandomierz. This event was considered as temporary, because both Henryk IV Probus and Władysław I the Elbow-high continue to used the tile of Duke of Kraków and Sandomierz.[136]

On his way to become King (1290–1295)

Death of Henryk IV Probus. Przemysł II, ruler of Kraków

Przemysł II seal
Premisl II Dei Gracia Regis Poloniae Domini Pomeraniae.[137]

Henry IV Probus, Duke of Wrocław and Kraków died on 23 June 1290, probably poisoned.[138] Because he died childless, in his will[139] he bequeathed the Duchy of Wrocław to Henry III of Głogów,[140] and Kraków -with the title of High Duke and thus the overlordship over Poland- to Przemysł II. In addition, he returned Kłodzko to King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia and also gave to the Bishopric of Wrocław the Duchy of Nysa-Otmuchów as a perpetual fief with full sovereignty.[141]

This last dispositions are not in doubt, since they are compatible with the current political line of Henryk IV. However, the inheritance of Kraków and Sandomierz to Przemysł II, one of his most male closest relatives,[142] caused considerable surprise among historians. In historiography, there are several theories to explain the decision of the Duke of Wrocław.[143] Recently it's assumed that Archbishop Jakub of Gniezno was behind this testament, because on 17 June 1290, a few days before the death of Henryk IV, he was lived in Wrocław.[144] In accordance with custom, Przemysł II had to pay some religious dispositions from Henryk IV: the transfer to Kraków Cathedral of 100 pieces of fine gold and devotion to the implementation of ornaments and liturgical books to the Tyniec monastery.[145]

Przemysł II was probably informed very quickly about the death of the Duke of Wroclaw. Due to the lack of documents, he only appears with title of Duke of Kraków for the first in a diploma issued on 25 July 1290.[146] Characteristically, Przemysł II in any of his documents used the title of Duke of Sandomierz, because, despite having full rights over this land under the will of Henryk IV Probus, he didn't have possession of it: Władysław I the Elbow-high, in fact, had conquered the land shortly before Henryk IV's death.[147]

In Lesser Poland, Przemysł II adopted the crowned eagle -used previously by Henryk IV Probus- as his emblem (his previous emblem, inherited from both his father and uncle, was a climbed lion).

It's unknown when exactly Przemysł II went to Kraków to assume the control. On 24 April 1290 he was still in Gniezno.[148] Two months later he issued a document in Kraków,[149] where he initially supported and confirmed the power of local elite (with castellan Żegota, chancellor Prokop, voivode Mikołaj and treasurer Florian among others[150]), clergy (including the Bishop of Kraków Paweł of Przemankowo, who in another document issued on 12 September 1290 gave the right to collect tithes from the local income[151]), and middle-class people.[152]

Relations with Władysław I the Elbow-high. Government of Kraków

There is no certainty about the political relations between Przemysł II and Władysław I the Elbow-high, especially about who was the real ruler over the Duchy of Sandomierz. The fact that Przemysł II didn't use the title of Duke of Sandomierz supported the thesis that both competitors have accepted the Elbow-high's authority and formal possession over that land, without precluding the possibility of minor clashes.[153]

Is also noted that Przemysł II only appointed officials only in Kraków and the surrounding areas (Wieliczka and Miechów). This probably showed that the real power of the Duke of Greater Poland confined to the city and near towns. The other territories are probably held by Władysław I the Elbow-high.[154]

Resignation of Lesser Poland in favor of King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia

Przemysł II abandoned Kraków, capital of Lesser Poland between 12 September and 23 October 1290. He never returned.[155] Leaving Wawel castle, he took with whim the royal crown and regalia kept in the cathedral since the times of Bolesław II the Generous.[156] At this point he was already planning his own royal coronation.

In the meanwhile, the pretensions of Wenceslaus II of Bohemia over Lesser Poland became more evident. His claims are supported by the donation made for his maternal aunt, Gryfina (also named Agrippina) of Halych[157] (widow of Leszek II the Black) and the investidure given to him by King Rudolph I of Germany. Both documents are no effects under Polish law; however, his military power, wealth and the cultural proximity with the Kingdom of Bohemia made Wenceslaus II a widely accepted candidate in Lesser Poland.[158]

Przemysł II had then two choices: a military confrontation (in which, due to the predominance of the Bohemian army had no chance), or political discussions.

On 14 October 1290 in Gniezno Archbishop Jakub Świnka inaugurated a provincial synod, where assisted Jan Gerbicz, Bishop of Poznań; Tomasz Tomka, Bishop of Płock; Wisław, Bishop of Kujawy and Konrad, Bishop of Lebus (Lubusz).[159] At the Synod, in addition to the Bishops, also assisted Przemysł II and Mestwin II of Pomerelia. Probably in this meeting, the Duke of Greater Poland decided to abandon his rights over Lesser Poland to Wenceslaus II in exchange for a monetary compensation.[160]

It's unknown when exactly began the negotiations between Przemysł II and Wenceslaus II. They certainely ended between 6 January (the last time when Przemysł II used the title of Duke of Kraków in a document) and 10 April 1291 (the first time where Wenceslaus II used this title in charters).[161] In addition, it's also known that the by mid-April Bohemian troops led by Bishop Arnold of Bamberg are already on Wawel castle.[162]

Alliance with Henry III of Głogów. Treaty of mutual inheritance between them

The loss of Lesser Poland didn't prevent Przemysł II to actively participate in politics. In the early 1290s (probably shortly after the death of Henryk IV Probus) he entered in a close alliance with Henry III of Głogów. Details of this treaty are no preserved, and the only knowledge of this matter derives from a document issued by Władysław I the Elbow-high in Krzywiń on 10 March 1296, in which he emphasizes that Henry III had a good rights over Greater Poland.[163] Rejected the idea of kinship (who the Elbow-high could claim due to his marriage to Hedwig of Kalisz), it seems justified the view that in the early 1290s (certainly before January 1293, when Przemysł II became involved with the Elbow-high)was signed a treaty in which the ruler of Greater Poland give rights of succession to the Duke of Głogów.[164]

Congress of Kalisz. Alliance with Władysław I the Elbow-high

In January 1293 occurred in Kalisz political talks between Przemysł II, Władysław I the Elbow-high and his brother Casimir II of Łęczyca. Details about the conversations are unknown; only survive two documents in which the succession of the throne of Kraków (although only teorical, because the Duchy was in the hands of Wencesalus II) would be in the following order: firstly Przemysł II, next the Elbow-High and finally the Duke of Łęczyca; in addition, they promised to help each other in the recovery of this land by any of them and annually payment of 300 pieces of fine silver to the Archbishop of Gniezno, with the obligation to duplicate the amount during the first two years.[165] Conversations in Kalisz were certainly sensitive,[166] and the initiator was without doubt Archbishop Jakub Świnka. The main motivation was probably to reinforce the anti-Bohemian coalition, in which the allies undertook to help each other. Przemysł II also named the Elbow-high his successor in Greater Poland in the case of his death without male heirs (although it is possible that, just in the case of Henry III of Głogów, they signed a treaty of mutual inheritance).[167] In spite of the arrangements are not known any action from the coalition. Casimir II of Łęczyca died on 10 June 1294 in the Battle of Trojanow against Lithuania.[168]

In the Congress of Kalisz was probably arranged (and performed) the marriage between Władysław I the Elbow-high and Hedwig of Kalisz, Przemysł II's cousin and daughter of Bolesław the Pious.[169]

Marriage with Margaret of Brandenburg

Around the time of the Congress of Kalisz, Przemysł II decided to remarry, because his beloved wife Rikissa was certaily dead by that time (probably the year before). The chosen bride was Margaret, daughter of Albert III, Margrave of Brandenburg-Salzwedel and Matilda of Denmark, daughter of King Christopher I.[170] This marriage was concluded for political reasons and was expected to secure the succession of Przemysł II in Pomerelia. Due to the relatively close relationship between the Duke and his bride (they are great-grandchildren of King Ottokar I of Bohemia) was needed a papal dispensation for the marriage.[171] The wedding ceremony took place shortly before 13 April 1293; according to some historians, probably in this occasion was also celebrated the betrothal between Przemysł II's daughter Ryksa and Otto of Brandenburg-Salzwedel, Margaret's brother.[172]

Death of Mestwin II. Duke of Pomerelia

In spring of 1294 Mestwin II of Pomerelia paid a visit to Przemysł II. In turn, the Duke of Greater Poland was in Gdańsk on 15 June 15, where he approved in Słupsk documents with Mestwin II.[173] By 30 June 30 Przemysł II was again in Greater Poland.[174]

The deteriorating health of Mestwin II forced Przemysł II to make another visit to Pomerelia in autumn.[175] However, it's unknown if he was present when Mestwin II died on 25 December 1294 in Gdańsk.[176] However, there is no doubt that Przemysł II took part in his funeral. The last Duke of Pomerelia from the Samborides was buried in the Cistercian monastery in Oliwa.[177]

After inheriting Pomerelia, Przemysł II adopted the new title of "dux Polonie et Pomoranie".[178] He certainly remained in Gdańsk until the beginning of April, because by 10 April he was in Poznań.[179]

King of Poland and death (1295–1296)

Preparations for the coronation

Coronation of Przemysł II in 1295, 19th century recreation.

The unification of Greater Poland and Gdańsk Pomerania (Pomerelia) definitely made Przemysł II the strongest ruler in the Piast dynasty. Already by 1290, and with the help of Archbishop Jakub of Gniezno, duke began to prepare his royal coronation (earlier unsuccessfully pursued by Henryk IV Probus), the preliminary step for the unification of Poland.

Due to the occupation of Lesser Poland by Wenceslaus II, the Duke of Greater Poland had to postpone his plans until 1294. Only with the death of Mestwin II – an event which increased considerably his power among the Piasts rulers – Przemysł II, together with Archbishop Jakub, took the decisive decision for a coronation.

Przemysł II, King of Poland. Papal approval and extent of his domains

Gniezno Cathedral, place of the coronation of Przemysł II.

The coronation of Przemysł II and his wife Margaret took place at Gniezno Cathedral on Sunday 26 June 1295, the day of Saints John and Paul.[180] It is unknown why it took place as a simple coronation ceremony (ordinis cororandi) despite it was the first Polish coronation in 219 years. Besides Archbishop Jakub of Gniezno, the other main representants of church hierarchy who participated in the ceremony were:[181][182] Bishops Konrad of Lubusz, Jan II of Poznań, Wisław of Włocławek and Gedko II of Płock. From the Polish episcopate, Bishops Johann III Romka of Wrocław and Jan Muskata of Kraków were possibly either present in person or sent their consents.[183] Historians generally agree with the above list of Bishops who participated in the coronation. Certainly are some doubts about the presence of Bishop Konrad of Lubusz, who in 18 June was in Prague.[184] However, as was noted by Kazimierz Tymieniecki,[185] he could be able to make the travel to Gniezno for the coronation. There is no information about the secular witnesses of the coronation; certainly many dignitaries from both Greater Poland and Pomerelia must have arrived.[186] Similarly, no sources point to the presence of other Piasts rulers in the ceremony.[187]

Poland at the time of Przemysł II (1295).

The consent of Pope Boniface VIII wasn't necessary, because due to the earlier coronations Poland was already a Kingdom.[188] Contemporary sources do not definitively confirm that Przemysł II and Archbishop obtained the approval of the Holy See for the coronation. Only the Kronika oliwska[189] and the Kronika zbrasławska[190] stated that the coronation took place with such consent.

If there was an explicit approval, it could influence the later effort of Władysław I the Elbow-high to obtain the Pope's permission for his own coronation; the coronation in 1320 took however place in very different circumstances, because the Elbow-high had a competitor to the throne in the person of King John of Bohemia and the Papacy was then strongly influenced by the French court.[191] In 1295 the Papacy was an independent entity and the Polish episcopate could more calmly await the expected protests from Wenceslaus II.

Regardless of whether Przemysł II has obtained the consent of the Pope or not, the legality of his coronation wasn't questioned by his contemporaries. Even the Czech Kronika zbrasławska not denied the royal title to the Duke of Greater Poland, although it called him King of Kalisz.[192] Finally, Wenceslaus II restricted his actions only to diplomatic protests to both Przemysł II (where he tried to persuade him to give up the crown) and the Papal Curia.[193]

The coronation of Przemysł II gave rise to a dispute between historians about the extent of his Kingdom. Stanisław Kutrzeba pointed that Przemysł II, in fact, was crowned King of Greater Poland.[194] This theory caused a lively discussion, which to this day doesn't give a clear answer about the monarchical status of Przemysł II.[195] It could be expected however that Przemysł II wanted to revive through the coronation the old Kingdom of Poland, which also agrees with the inscription on the post-coronation seal Reddidit ipse pronis victricia signa Polonis,[196] although in reality Przemysł II was politically limited to Greater Poland and Gdańsk Pomerania.

Royal government and death in Rogoźno

The Death of King Przemysł II by Jan Matejko, 1875.
Assassination of King Przemysł II by Wojciech Gerson, 1881.

After the coronation Przemysł II went to Pomerelia. On 30 July he was in Slupsk, where confirmed the privileges of the Cistercian monasteries in Oliwa and Żarnowiec.[197] He then visited other major cities: Gdańsk, Tczew and Świecie. In August 1295 he returned to Greater Poland but in October he was again in Gdańsk.[198] This demonstrates how important was for Przemysł II the Duchy of Pomerelia.

Taking into account the fact that these events taken place in the 13th century, the sources who informed Przemysł II's death are considerable, though the Kronika wielkopolska failed to bring his work to the time of his contemporaries, and so the years 1295-1296[199] and told the events of Rogoźno.

Sources are divided[200] about who are the perpetrators of the murder of the Polish King: the Margraves of Brandenburg, some Polish families (the Nałęczs or Zarembas or the two families at the same time), and finally the attempts to reconcile the two theories.

One of the first sources who must be taken into account was the almost contemporary Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej.[201] The records shows that the Brandenburg Margraves Otto V the Long, another Otto (perhaps Otto IV), and John IV, nephew of Przemysł II (as son of his oldest sister Constance), sent an army who arrived in the dawn on 8 February 1296 to the town of Rogoźno, where the King spent the Carnival to kidnap him. However, because he shows strong resistance, was wounded, and the men, unable to taken injured to Brandenburg, finally killed him. Motive for the crime was to the hatred of the Margraves to the Polish King because of his coronation.

The murder of King Przemysł II by men of the Margraves of Brandenburg was also supported by the Kronika oliwska (Chronicle of Oliva), which stipulates that after the royal coronation:

lived one year, was captured by the adjutant of Waldemar, Margrave of Brandenburg, and was murdered in revenge for his wife, the holy Lukarda, which, he suspected had killed before.[202]

With high probability it's assumed that the first part of this information, was translated from the Liber Mortuorum Monasterii Oliviensis[203] by the author of the Kronika oliwska, Abbot Stanisław, and the message about the motives of the murder as a revenge for Ludgarda's death is the result of a latter addition of the Abbot. In this passage was established the main indication that Margrave Waldemar of Brandenburg was guilty of the crime; however, during the tragic events he couldn't participated, because in 1296 he had less than 15 years old. Waldemar certainly gained notoriety only around 1308, after his failed attempt to seize Pomerania.[204]

Another earlier source who wrote about the death of Przemysł II at the hands of Brandenburg, was the Rocznik kołbacki of the Cistercian monastery in Kołbacz on Western Pomerania. The brief information is valuable primarily because it was the only one who named the direct perpetrator of the crime, a man named Jakub Kaszuba.[205] The problem is that nothing certain about him was found in other sources, and besides, the name of Piotr, under what is known Przemysł II in the chronicle, raises big surprise.[206] Most likely this is mistake of the author.

Finally, another source who accused the Margraves of Brandenburg was the relative later Chronicle of Henry of Hertford, which although written during the mid-14th century, was reliable enough because was from Germany (and therefore unsuspected of being partial). There was stated that Przemysł II died during a war between Brandenburg and Greater Poland. Another German chronicler, who unequivocally accused the House of Ascania was Dietmar of Lübeck,[207] which also pointed that Przemysł II's wife Margaret took part in the conspiracy who killed him, due to her family relations. It's unknown whether the chronicler found this information, from earlier sources or deduced it based on the simple relationship: because Margaret came from the family accused of the murder, she had to participate.

There are a number of sources, both Polish and foreign, who accused some Polish noble families as perpetrators of the crime. Among the Polish sources who established this fact are: the Rocznik małopolski[208] in the Szamotuly codec, the Rocznik Sędziwoja[209] and the Kronika książąt polskich.[210] The priority should be given to the nearest chronologically Rocznik Traski.[211] Extremely important is also the testimony of Jan Łodzia, Bishop of Poznań during the Polish-Teutonic War of 1339, because came from a person who participated in the political life of Greater Poland of those times.[212]

About the foreign sources who related the crime and pointed the culprits must be noted: the Annales Toruniensis (date from the early 15th century),[213] the Kronika zbrasławska (dated from the 14th century)[214] and the Latopis hipacki, who was written in the first half of the 14th century.[215] From the above-mentioned chronicles (from Lesser Poland, Bohemian and Kievan Rus' provenance), the main perpetrators in the King's death were Greater Poland noble families. These families have been identified as either the Zarembas (according to the Rocznik małopolski) or the Nałęczs with the help of the Zarembas (according to the Latopis hipacki).

Finally, a third group of sources equally accused for the murder to both the Margraves of Brandenburg and the Polish noble families, for example the Rocznik świętokrzyski nowy.[216] Almost identical information was shown in the Katalog biskupów krakowskich, dated from the 15th century; however, there is an interesting addition who also indicated that Wenceslaus II and a group of unnamed Polish princes are involved in the crime.[217] It's unknown whether the author mentioned the involvement of Wenceslaus II as a simple deduction: because he had the greatest benefit for this crime, he must be the perpetrator.[218] Finally, Jan Długosz indicated that the Zaremba and Nałęcz families, with the help of some "Saxons", are the perpetrators of the crime,[219] a fact also reported by Marcin Bielski[220] and Marcin Kromer.[221]

8 February 1296 as the date of the crime is widely recognized. In fact, appears in the Rocznik Traski,[222] Rocznik małopolski,[223] Rocznik Świętokrzyski nowyw,[224] Kalendarz włocławski[225] and the Liber mortuorum monasterii Oliviensis.[226] The dates given by the Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej (6 February)[227] and the Nekrolog lubiński (4 February),[228] as well the reports of Jan Długosz[229] are considered erroneous.

As for the place of death, historians considers accurate the versions of the Rocznik małopolski ("prope oppidum Rogoszno")[223] or the Rocznik Sędziwoja ("ante Rogoszno"),[209] who stated that Przemysł II was killed near Rogoźno.

The body of 39-year-old Przemysł II was buried in the Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul in Poznań, according to the Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej.[230] The funeral was presided by Bishop Jan. Crowds of nobles, clergy, knights and common citizens taken part in the procession.

Reconstruction of the events in Rogoźno

Epitaph of Przemysł II in the Royal Chapel of Poznań Archcathedral Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul.

The death of Przemysł II as a result of a failed kidnapping attempt was a matter of interest between historians.[231] Circumstances of the death of the last of the Pias Greater Poland line was specifically studied by Karol Górski,[232] Kazimierz Jasiński,[233] Zygmunt Boras,[234] Bronisław Nowacki[235] and Edward Rymar.[236] The importance in Polish history of the death of Przemysł II was also relevant in the works of Władysław Karasiewicz[237] and Jan Pakulski,[238] due to the role of the Nałęcz and Zaremba families.

In 1295 the King spent Christmas in Gniezno, where he met with Władysław I the Elbow-high.[239] It's unknown the reason for this meeting. Probably was discussed the possibility of the recovery of Lesser Poland or the definitely defeat of Brandenburg. In any case, these conversations could be shown as a threat by the Brandenburg Margraves, who still are anxiously watching the inheritance of Pomerelia by Przemysł II after Mestwin II's death and his royal coronation.[240] But the main concern of the House of Ascania was obvious to all: the union of the Kingdom of Poland, and that sooner or later Przemysł II will claim the lands seized by the Margraves in Greater Poland.

After 25 January 1296 the King left his capital, and surely by 3 February he was in Pyzdry. For the last days of the Carnival (between 4–7 February) Przemysł II decided to spend these festivities in the town of Rogoźno.

Leaving Pyzdry, the King certainly didn't think that about only 30 km of distance, in the Brandenburg town of Brzezina are staying the two brothers Margraves Otto IV with the Arrow and Conrad, and the sons of the latter: Otto VII, John IV and probably also the youngest, Waldemar.[241] They were carefully informed by traitors from Przemysł II's inner circle about the King's itinerary for the next few days.

In the meanwhile, Przemysł II participated in the traditional tournaments and religious services of the Carnival. The security guard of the King became weaker, especially since probably 8 February. On that day began the forty days of Lent, and before heading out again the entourage wanted to rest.

The plan of kidnap the King by the Margraves of Brandenburg was widely detailed by the Roczniki małopolski.[223] They probably wanted to obtain from Przemysł II the resignation of Pomerelia and with this, his plans for the unification of Polish Kingdom. The contingent was probably consisted by dozens of people, because made the kidnapping in hostile territory require adequate preparation. Direct command of the army was entrusted, according to the Rocznik kołbacki[242] to certain Jakub, who was identified by Edward Rymar[243] as Jakub Guntersberg (Jakub Kaszuba).

Although the personal participation of the Margraves in the kidnapping[244] was pointed in the Rocznik kapituły poznańskie[230] and the chronicle of Jan Długosz,[245] this fact seems unlikely, because they would not risk their lives, with no certainty of success. In any case, an army of a few dozen men set off in the evening on 7 February (probably after sunset), by the shortest route through Noteć to the place where Przemysł II stayed. As was stated by Karol Górski,[246] the sunset of 7 February (or properly 30 January, if we taken into account the subsequent calendar reform) occurred at 16:48, and the sunrise had come about 7:38, which gave fourteen hours to the army to quietly reach to their target.

The attack took place early in the morning of 8 February, on Ash Wednesday, when the bodyguards of the King are in a deep sleep. Despite this, they been able to organize a defense under the personal guidance of the King. Attackers are too many to overcome. The primary objective of Jakub Kaszuba's people the capture of Przemysł II; they succeeded only after the King, covered with numerous wounds, fell to the ground. The Brandenburg army seriously wounded his horse to flee towards the border with Silesia (probably with the intention to confuse the Polish army). Soon, the kidnappers realized that they weren't able to bring alive the King, and the prisoner only delays their escape. Then decided the murder of the King, a deed personally made by Kaszuba.[247] A late tradition says that the murder took place probably in the village of Sierniki,[248] about 6.5 km east from Rogoźno. The King's body was abandoned on the road, where was found by the knights involved in the persecution. The place were was found the body, who was the same when was committed the crime (pl: porąbania) was traditionally named Porąblic. The assassins were never caught.

Thus, there are many convincing evidence for the participation of the Margraves of Brandenburg in the murder. According to Kazimierz Jasiński,[249] that efficient action wasn't possible without the participation of people who was close to Przemysł II. Historians are divided about what of two noble families, Nałęcz or Zaremba, participated in this event. The Zarembas are more suspicious, following the writes of the Rocznik małopolski:[223] the rebellion of 1284, certainly caused a deterioration in their relations with the King. About the Nałęcz family, there is no accusation against them in the Rocznik świętokrzyskiego nowy[250] or in the chronicle of Długosz;[251] in fact, modern historiography will be writing about the friendly relationship of Przemysł II with the Grzymała and Łodzia families, but also with the Nałęcz.

Situation of Greater Poland and Gdańsk Pomerania after Przemysł II's death

The death of Przemysł II, last male member of the Piast Greater Poland line, although certainly surprised his neighbors (including Brandenburg, whose purpose was to kidnap the king, not his murder), caused the rapid intervention of all the forces who want to seize power in his domains. Probably even in February, and by March, Greater Poland was in the middle of confrontation between Władysław I the Elbow-high (supported by Bolesław II of Płock)[252] and Henry III of Głogów (with the help of Bolko I of Opole).[253]

The war, if it really took place, didn't last long, because on 10 March 1296 in Krzywiń an armistice was signed.[254] Under the agreement, the Elbow-high accepted the rights of the Duke of Głogów over Greater Poland, following the terms of his previous treaty with Przemysł II. In addition the Duke of Kujawy adopted Henry III's eldest son Henry as his heir, while ensuring that at the moment of his majority the Elbow-high would provide him with the Duchy of Poznań.[255]

It's not known why Władysław I the Elbow-high considered that Henry III of Głogów had better rights to Greater Poland than him. Generally, historians believe that it was probably because of the constant threat of Brandenburg, who seized the land of Noteć and the castles in Wieleń, Czarnków, Ujście, Santok and Drezdenko.[256]

The second reason of Władysław I the Elbow-high for a quickly agreement with Henry III of Głogów was the intervention in Gdańsk of his nephew Leszek of Inowrocław, which made claims to this part of the lands of Przemysł II.[257] Finally, thanks to the fast intervention of the Elbow-high in Pomerelia, Leszek retreated to his paternal domains in Inowrocław after received as compensation the town of Wyszogród.

With the death of Przemysł II came the partition of his domains, and only thanks to the instant reaction of Władysław I the Elbow-high, the losses against of Brandenburg, Głogów and Kujawy were relatively small.

Seals and Coinage

During his reign Przemysł II had only five seals:

Royal seal of Przemysł II, 1296.

Historians do not agree why Przemysł II replaced the seal used by his father and uncle for a lion and an eagle. It's believed that either he wanted to emphasize his procedence from the Piast dynasty (the eagle in the coat of arms was also used by Władysław III Spindleshanks and Władysław Odonic), or with the symbol wanted to emphasize his rights inherited from Henryk IV Probus.[260]

There is no known coin which can certainly be attributed to Przemysł II. However, due to the activities of mints certified by sources and the occurrence of witnesses made by the ruler of legal actions - minters,[261] can be almost certain that any coins existed. Some historians attributed to the Greater Poland ruler two types of coins: the Bracteate, preserved in seven copies, showing a portrait in profile with a crown, holding in his hands a sword, and a coin preserved in a single copy, which differs from the first model inscription "REX" and the crowning headgear (on the second copy appears topped with a cross). Both coins resemble the Denarius from times of Bolesław II the Generous.[262]

Economic Policy

Due to the nature of the extant sources from the times of Przemysł II (documents, and narrative texts recording mainly -if not exclusively- political events) it's difficult to indicate what were the major plans of action of the King in the economic sphere. The most important ally for Przemysł II was the Roman Catholic Church, and for obvious reasons (copists and translators is the vast majority are from the clergy) most documents who detailed their collaboration have been preserved to this day.

One of the most important political allies of Przemysł II was Jakub Świnka, Archbishop of Gniezno. Already on 8 January 1284 he managed to obtain the village of Polanów.[93] Much more important grace of the King to Archbishop Jakub was received on 1 August when he obtain the right of mint his own coins in Żnin and the castellany of Ląd. Moreover, under these privilege of coins mint, the Archbishop was to be treated as equal with the Greater Poland ruler.[263] Two years later, on 20 June 1286 was failed the attempt to get the same privilege of the Archbishop to Duke Bolesław II of Masovia in Łowicz; this became in the basis for the economic independence of Jakub and the economic power of Greater Poland.[264] Also, the Bishop of Poznań received similar grants from Przemysł II for example, in 1288 in the city of Śródka,[265] in 1289, an exemption from merchantil taxes to the episcopal city of Buk,[266] and finally, in 1290, was approved the grant of German law for Słupca. For political reasons, there is no similar support to other bishops -with one exception- in 1287, Przemysł II released Bishop Konrad of Lubusz from the current Polish law and authorized the implementation of the German law in his diocese.[267]

The Greater Poland ruler also tried to support monastical Orders. The surviving sources showed that among the most favored were the Cistercians and especially his monasteries in Ląd (who received grants in the years 1280, 1289, 1291 and 1293),[268] Łekno (1280, 1283, 1288),[269] and Gościkowo (1276, 1277, 1290).[270] A little less support enjoyed the Benedictines (especially the monastery of Lubin, who received privileges in the years 1277, 1294, 1296),[271] and Dominicans (his monastery in Poznań received in 1277 the right to fishing on the Warta,[272] and the monastery of Wronki monetary grants). Przemysł II also granted small privileges to military orders: the Templars,[273] the Hospitallers,[274] and the Canons of the Holy Sepulchre.[275]

Przemysł II also favored the middle class, and happily to this day are survived many documents. In 1280, the capital Poznań bought from the government lands and utilities, and received income from stalls and shambles. Three years later, the merchants were freed from paying some taxes in Greater Poland.[276] The second main city in Greater Poland, Kalisz, received in 1282 the confirmation of some rights previously granted by Bolesław the Pious.[277] In 1283, the Duke extended the town privileges in all the cities of Greater Poland following the model of Kalisz (Privilege of Kalisz).[278] Another city privileges were granted in 1287 (the Jews community obtain the right to establish a local cemetery in the village of Czaszki[279]), in 1289 (the city obtain the consent of the construction of five pharmacies and the authorization of implemented a sixth[280]), two in 1291 (cloth sellers received from the Duke the revenue from customs duties, and the city 12 pieces of land for the purpose of grazing[281]), in 1292 (exemption from customs duties levied in Ołobok[282]) and in 1294 (ranging cottagers on German law in the Old Town in Kalisz[283]).

In addition to the privileges granted to Poznań and Kalisz were known the individual privileges given to Pyzdry in 1283 (exemption from paying customs duties merchants in Greater Poland[284]), to Rogoźno in 1280 (implementation of the German law[285]) and Elbląg in 1294 (confirmation of privileges given by Mestwin II[286]).

Ancestry

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Odon of Poznań
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Władysław Odonic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Viacheslava Yaroslavna of Halych
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Przemysł I
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
? Mestwin I of Pomerelia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedwig
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
? Zwinisława
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Przemysł II
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Henry I the Bearded
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Henry II the Pious
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedwig of Andechs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elisabeth of Wrocław
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ottokar I of Bohemia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Anna of Bohemia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Constance of Hungary
 
 
 
 
 
 

References

  1. Only nominal; he actually took over the government of Poznań in 1273, aged sixteen. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 95-96.
  2. Only nominal (without actually reigning in the district) but used the title even in subsequent years, for example, on the occasion of the congress in Kalisz in 1293. Codex diplomaticus Maioris Poloniae, ed. E. Raczynski, Poznań 1840, nr 76; KDW, vol. II, nr 692.
  3. Kronika wielkopolska, Warsaw 1965, vol. 119, pp. 260-261.
  4. Especially if is compared with the analogous case of the name Władysław, who in earlier sources is in the form Włodzisław, possibly Włodko. See K. Jasinski: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie (Kronika Miasta Poznania, nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, pp. 39-40.
  5. Rocznik Kołbacki: MGH SS, vol. XIX, p. 716.
  6. O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, pp. 243-250
  7. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, Roczniki Historyczne, vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 198.
  8. K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie (Kronika Miasta Poznania, nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, p. 53.
  9. For example Z. Boras: Przemysław II. 700-lecie koronacji, Międzychód 1995, p. 14
  10. Kronika wielkopolska, Warsaw 1965, vol. 119, pp. 260-261: "In the same year (ie in 1257) was born the son of Przemysl the Good Duke of Greater Poland, in Poznań, on Sunday morning, the feast of the martyr Saint Callixtus (Pope Callixtus I). And when the canons and vicars of Poznań sang morning prayers at the end of the ninth lesson came and told the news for the birth of a boy. So immediately momentous voice began to sing the Te Deum laudamus - because of the morning the Office, as with joy at the birth of a boy - to praise God that so much grace deigned to comfort the Polish".
  11. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 43.
  12. However, it did not encompass the proper Governorship of the Duchy of Poznan, contenting herself with the direct rule over only her oprawą wdowią, the village of Modrze. T. Jurek: Elżbieta [in:] Piastowie Leksykon Biograficzny, edited by S. Szczura and K. Ożóga, Kraków 1999, p. 414.
  13. Their names appeared on a document granted by Bolesław the Pious on 8 November 1267. This document is also the first mention of Przemysł II. See Codex diplomaticus Poloniae, vol. I, nr 52 and A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 92-93.
  14. Indirect proof may be that such language skills were inherited from his father Przemysł I. Kronika wielkopolska, ed. B. Kürbis, translation by K. Abgarowicz, introduction and commentaries by B. Kürbisówna, Warsaw 1965, vol. 118, pp. 257-260.
  15. Kronika wielkopolska, Warsaw 1965, vol. 161, pp. 295–297.
  16. Some historians, such as A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 93–94 or Z. Boras, Przemysław II. 700-lecie koronacji, Międzychód 1995, pp. 19–20, believes that in fact only a small part of the defense was actually killed during the acquisition of the fortress, and the survivors of the Greater Poland army, as suggested by Jan Długosz, were who saved Przemysł II's life.
  17. Kronika wielkopolska, Warsaw 1965, pp. 295-297.
  18. Hedwig, mother of Bolesław the Pious, was probably a daughter of Duke Mestwin I of Pomerelia. O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 221; W. Dworzaczek, Genealogia, Warsaw 1959, arr. 2 and 17; K. Jasinski, Uzupełnienia do genealogii Piastów, "Studies Źródłoznawcze", Vol. V, 1960, p. 100; K. Jasinski: Genealogia Piastów Wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, "Kronika Miasta Poznania", Vol. II, 1995, pp. 38-39.
  19. K. Jasiński: Gdańsk w okresie samodzielności politycznej Pomorza Gdańskiego, [in:] Historia Gdańska edited by Edmund Cieślak, Gdańsk 1985, vol. I (to 1454), pp. 283-297.
  20. In contemporary sources, her name is variously recorded as Lucardis, Lucartha or Lukeria. See B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 54.
  21. It's unknown how many years had Ludgarda at the time of the wedding. Based on indirect sources, historians accept that she could be born around 1259 (B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 54), in 1260 or 1261 (K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie "Kronika Miasta Poznania", nr 2/95, Poznań 1995, p. 54), and finally, about 1261 (A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 94). In consecuence, the Mecklenburg princess would be around 13-15 years at that time.
  22. Kronika wielkopolska, Warsaw 1965, p. 297.
  23. Wspominki poznańskie, [in:] MPH SN, vol. VI, Warsaw 1962, pp. 125; A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 95.
  24. Also, historiography is not consistent in this regard, and additional confusion exists around the order of events. K. Jasinski, Przemysł II, [in:] Polish Biographical Dictionary, Vol XXVIII, Wrocław 1984–1985, p. 730, and K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, pp. 154–155, reports that firstly Przemysł II received its own district, and then, according to the will of Bolesław the Pious, married with Ludgarda of Mecklenburg. Information about the rebellion against his uncle (discussed below), however, seems to suggest that in fact it was the opposite, ie: the prince firstly married Ludgarda, and then, dissatisfied with the lack of influence in the government affairs, rebelled to receive his own patrimony, and as a result he obtained the Duchy of Poznań. This sequence of events is suported by B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 54–58 and A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 95-96.
  25. KDW (Kodeks Dyplomatyczny Wielkopolski) , Vol. I, No 453.
  26. KDW, Vol. II, No. 639.
  27. It's unknown who were these people. It only assume that they could be young prince's closest associates during his government over the Duchy of Poznań in 1273-1279. They were: the Governor of Poznań Benjamin Zaremba, the Chancellor and later Bishop of Poznań Andrzej Zaremba, the esquire Pietrzyk, the Poznań Chamberlain Bogusław Domaradzic Grzymał, the Prince's notary Tylon, his confessor Theodoric, and the incumbent Bishop of Poznań Mikołaj I. See B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 58-59.
  28. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 97.
  29. Some doubts about this theory raised because the fact that Peter Winiarczyk was rewarded after 16 years of the events. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp.97-98.
  30. KDW, Vol. VI, No. 25. This alliance was known only from a write-down document without date and place of origin, and the issue of give a chronological time to that document is quite complicated (years 1273-1278 during the rule of Przemysł II over Poznań ). The analysis of the events can be assumed that the most possible date could be half year of 1273. Cf A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 96. Other historians (for example, B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 59–61) give as date for the conclusion of the alliance the year 1276.
  31. Cf. S. Zachorowski: Wiek XIII i panowanie Władysława Łokietka, [in:] R. Grodecki, S. Zachorowski, J. Dąbrowski: Dzieje Polski średniowiecznej w dwu tomach, vol. I to 1333, Kraków 1995, p. 271: Here is further related the long-term conflict between the Kingdoms of Hungary and Bohemia after the fall of the Babenberg dynasty, who ended with the defeat of Przemysl Otakar II in the Battle on the Marchfeld in 1278. Should be remembered, however, that after 1273 the Polish princes who where on the Hungarian side changed unexpectedly his politics and transferred their loyalty to the Bohemian side (probably due to the inability to find cooperation with the regency who ruled Hungary on behalf of the young King Ladislaus IV). More about this conflict could be see in: A. Barciak: Ideologia polityczna monarchii Przemysła Ottokara II. Studium z dziejów czeskiej polityki zagranicznej w drugiej połowie XIII wieku, Katowice 1982.
  32. For this date are in favor K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 154, and A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsawa 2006, pp. 96-97. From another opinion is B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 58, which accept a date of about 1275 as most the accepted date for the beginning of Przemysł II's rule in Poznań. J. Topolski: Dzieje Wielkopolski, vol. I, Poznań 1969, p. 294 and W. Dworzaczek: Genealogia, Warsawa 1959, table 2, are in favor of the year 1277.
  33. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warszawa 2006, p. 97.
  34. More information about these events in B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 62–68, cf. Kronika książąt polskich, ed. Z. Węglewski, [in:] MPH, vol.III, Lwów 1878, p. 496.
  35. Henry III the White (Henryk IV's father) was brother of Duchess Elisabeth of Poznań (Przemysł II's mother)
  36. K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 155.
  37. Kronika książąt polskich, ed. Z. Węglewski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, Lwów 1878, p. 496.
  38. Modern historiography (for example K. Ożóg: Przemysł II [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 155; B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 67–69 and A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 99) considered the capture of Przemysł II as doubtful, because only Jan Długosz reports this and other contemporary sources are silent about this event.
  39. J. Długosz: Roczniki, czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, Fr. VII, p. 250.
  40. KDW, vol. III, nr 2030.
  41. A. Waśko: Henryk IV Prawy (Probus), [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, pp. 427-428
  42. K. Ożóg: Bolesław Pobożny, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 146.
  43. At the same time, he issued a proclamation addressed to the Polish, in which he emphasized the brotherhood between the two nations and a common threat from Germany. A. Barciak: Ideologia polityczna monarchii Przemysła Ottokara II. Studium z dziejów czeskiej polityki zagranicznej w drugiej połowie XIII wieku, Katowice 1982, pp. 43 ff.
  44. This list of ruler is provided by B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 69.
  45. KDW, vol. I, nr 482.
  46. K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 155.
  47. KDW, vol. I, nr 473.
  48. Mature historiography moved Bolesław's expedition to the end of May or early June. See W. Rybczyński: Wielkopolska pod rządami synów Władysława Odonica (1235–1279), [in:] "Rocznik Filarecki", I, 1886, pp. 316-317.
  49. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, Lwów 1872, p. 844.
  50. Cf. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsawa 2006, p. 100.
  51. J. Powierski: Krzyżacka polityka Przemysła II w pierwszym okresie jego aktywności politycznej, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 117-118.
  52. A completely different date is fixed by J. Tęgowski: W sprawie emendacji dokumentu Przemysła II dotyczącego powrotu Siemomysła na Kujawy, "Zapiski Kujawsko-Dobrzyńskie", serie A, 1978, pp. 213-219. He draws attention to the possibility of a mistake in the date of the document and the correct year of publication would be 1279. However, no other sources confirmated this and Tęgowski thesis remains only a hypothesis.
  53. Przemysł II had then only less than 20 years. It seems obvious that with the much olders Leszek II the Black and Ziemomysł of Inowrocław not have asked for his direct arbitration but rather to his uncle Bolesław, who (perhaps due to his war against Brandenburg or wanting to raise the prestige of his nephew), declined his participation in the meeting by sending Przemysł II with a retinue of experienced advisors: Maciej, Castellan of Kalisz; Bodzenta, Castellan of Ladz; Andrzej, Castellan of Nakielsk; Bodzęta, Castellan of Gieck; Bierwołt, Castellan of Lędzki and the Gniezno knight Bogumil. KDW, vol. III, nr 482, por. A. Swieżawski, Przemysł król Polski, Warszawa 2006, s. 99.
  54. The dispute was because the close ties between Ziemomysł with the Teutonic Order, at the expense of the local noble families. Early in 1271 Ziemomysł had suffered the rebellion of his subjects and temporary had lost his Duchy of Inowrocław, who was placed under the guardianship of both Bolesław the Pious and Leszek II the Black. S. Sroka, Siemomysl [in] Piast Biographical Lexicon , Cracow, 1999, pp. 208-209.
  55. Ziemomysł's eldest son Leszek recovered Wyszogród after Mestwin II's death in 1294. S. Sroka: Siemomysł, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 209.
  56. Not taking into account the later tense relations between Przemysł II and Władysław I the Elbow-high during his brief reign in Krakow. The friendly relations with the descendants of Casimir I of Kuyavia with the Greater Poland ruler was reflected, as some historians believed in the name chosen to Ziemomysł's second son, Przemysł, during his exile in Ląd. S. Sroka: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 223.
  57. Described in this was by the Rocznik kaliski. See. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 79.
  58. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warszawa 2006, p. 100; O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 232; W. Dworzaczek: Genealogia, Warsaw 1959, table 2.
  59. K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie ("Kronika Miasta Poznania", nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, p. 42; K. Ożóg: Bolesław Pobożny, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, pp. 142-147
  60. Jolenta-Helena shortly after her husband's death moved to Kraków next to her sister, the later Saint Kinga, which after the death of her husband Bolesław V the Chaste entered in the Poor Clares monastery at Stary Sącz. In this convent she stayed, according to various sources, either until the Mongol invasion in 1287 or until the death of her sister in 1292. Then she returned to Greater Poland and generously provided by Przemysł II, resided in the Poor Clares monastery in Gniezno, where she died on 11 June 1298, venerated as a saint. E. Rudzki: Polskie królowe, vol. I, p. 12.
  61. KDW, vol. I nr 485, 486, 488, 489, 491, 492, 493, 494, 496.
  62. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 81–82; A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 101-103.
  63. During 1278 Greater Poland had constant conflicts with the Margraviate of Brandenburg. After this year, none of the parties undertook further hostilities. In subsequent years, there was even warming relations. In addition, the Duke of Greater Poland had remarkably friendly relations with Mestwin II of Pomerelia, Leszek II the Black, and since 1281 with Henry IV Probus. A. Swieżawski, Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 105.
  64. It's unknown where exactly the meeting took place, because none of the contemporary sources of these events mention it. Historians have theorized that it could have been either Sądowel (cf. K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, pp. 155–156) or Barycz (cf. Z. Boras: Przemysław II. 700-lecie koronacji, Międzychód 1995, p. 25), but these are based only on indirect sources.
  65. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 847.
  66. R. Grodecki: Dzieje polityczne Śląska do r. 1290, [in:] Historia Śląska od najdawniejszych czasów do roku 1400, edited by S. Kutrzeby, vol. I, Kraków 1933, pp. 289-290
  67. The plans for a royal coronation for Henryk IV Probus proved to be serious, and are further confirmed by a document signed in 1280 between him and his father-in-law Władysław of Opole, in which the latter requested that, in return for his help in this matter, his own daughter (wife of Henry IV) would be crowned Queen with him. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 83.
  68. KDW, nr 504; K. Jasiński: Stosunki Przemysła II z mieszczaństwem, [in:] Czas, przestrzeń, praca w dawnych miastach: Studia ofiarowane Henrykowi Samsonowiczowi w sześćdziesiątą rocznicę urodzin, Warsawa 1991, p. 325.
  69. J. Baszkiewicz: Powstanie zjednoczonego państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII i XIV wieku, Warsaw 1954.
  70. E. Rymar: Rodowód książąt pomorskich. Szczecin 2005, tabl. VI.
  71. B. Śliwiński: Sambor II, [in:] Polski Słownik Biograficzny, vol. XXXIV, Wrocław 1993, p. 405.
  72. KDW, vol. I, nr 501.
  73. The case ended unsuccessfully for Mestwin II: the legate's verdict, issued in the name of Pope Martin IV on 18 May in Milicz, forced the Duke of Pomerelia to transfer Gniew to the Teutonic Order. Białogard remained in Pomerelia, but in return, the Duke had to give a few villages in the Ait in compensation. K. Zielinska: Zjednoczenie Pomorza Gdańskiego z Wielkopolska pod koniec XIII w. Umowa kępińska 1282 r., Toruń 1968, pp. 82-88.
  74. The selection of the frontier village of Kępno as a place of meeting could have had a double purpose: first, it might have been to facilitate contact with Papal legate Filippo di Fermo, then in Milicz (K. Zielinska: Zjednoczenie Pomorza Gdańskiego z Wielkopolska pod koniec XIII w. Umowa kępińska 1282 r., Toruń 1968, p. 51), and second, it could have been a political demonstration by Przemysl II directed against Henry IV Probus (B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295. Poznań 1995, p. 88).
  75. KDW, vol. I, nr 503.
  76. O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie, vol. II, Lwów 1919, pp. 266-267
  77. Z. Wojciechowski: Hołd Pruski i inne studia historyczne, Poznań 1946, p. 98.
  78. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsawa 2006, pp. 107–108; B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 88-90.
  79. Postanowienia układu kępińskiego (15 lutego 1282). [in:] "Przegląd Historyczny", vol. LXXXII, 1991, pp. 219-233.
  80. Chronica Oliviensis auctore Stanislao abbate Olivensi, [w:] MPH, t. VI, p. 315, and KDW, vol. I, nr 544. However, others dates for this meeting are also theorized. For the years 1288-1291 is J. Bieniak: Postanowienia układu kępińskiego (15 lutego 1282) [in:] "Przegląd Historyczny", vol. LXXXII, 1991, p. 228, while for the year 1287 is B. Śliwiński: Rola polityczna możnowładztwa na Pomorzu Gdańskim w czasach Mściwoja II, Gdańsk 1987, pp. 187-191.
  81. For example, in 1283 Mikołaj Zaremba received from Mestwin II in gratitude for his faithful services the village of Krępiechowice. Four years later, he was appointed voivode of Tczew. KDW, vol. II, nr 739, 740.
  82. The exact date of death of the Duchess of Greater Poland is unknown; it's only corroborated that she was buried on 14 December 1283 in Gniezno Cathedral. The contemporary sources who certify this are Roznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 849, and Rocznik Małopolski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 182. Only Jan Długosz stated that Ludgarda died in Poznań, and her date of death is precisely 14 December; J. Długosz: Annales seu cronicae incliti Regni Poloniae, Fr. VII, Warsaw 1975, pp. 225-226; see also O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 246; W. Dworzaczek: Genealogia, Warsaw 1959, table 2; K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica. [in:] Nasi Piastowie ("Kronika Miasta Poznania", nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, p. 55.
  83. Sources medieval sources actually inventing sensational information about the unnatural deaths of rulers, especially in relation of the Silesian princes during the years 1266-1290, because is noted the fact that deaths of four rulers (brothers: Henry III the White, Władysław and Konrad I of Głogów, and Henryk IV Probus) were under suspicions of poisoning. See B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295., Poznań 1995, p. 93.
  84. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 849. Chronicler obviously mistakenly identified Ludgarda's father with her uncle. Probably this mistake was originated because at the time of the writing, Henry I was taken prisoner during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and his brother Nicholas III assumed the government of Mecklenburg on his behalf.
  85. Rocznik małopolski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 183.
  86. Chronica Oliviensis auctore Stanislao abbate Olivensi, [in:] MPH, vol. VI, p. 315. Translation by B. Kürbis: O Ludgardzie, pierwszej żonie Przemysła II, raz jeszcze. [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 263.
  87. B. Kürbis: O Ludgardzie, pierwszej żonie Przemysła II, raz jeszcze. [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 263-264.
  88. Jan Długosz: Annales seu cronicae incliti Regni Poloniae, Fr. VII-VIII, Warsaw 1975, pp. 225-226.
  89. For the innocence Przemysł II and thus also for the natural death of Ludgarda are in favor A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski., Warsaw 2006, pp. 110–111; B. Ulanowski: Kilka słów o małżonkach Przemysła II. [in:] "Rozprawy i Sprawozdania z Posiedzeń Wydziału Historyczno-Filozoficznego Akademii Umiejętności", vol. XVII, 1884, p. 258; B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295., Poznań 1995, pp. 93–94 and B. Kürbis: O Ludgardzie, pierwszej żonie Przemysła II, raz jeszcze. [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 257-267. By the other hand, among who believed in the culpability of Przemysł II are K. Ożóg: Przemysł II. [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 156; K. Jasiński: Ludgarda. [in:] Polski Słownik Biograficzny, vol. XVIII, 1973, p. 87; J. Wesiołowski: Zabójstwo księżnej Ludgardy w 1283 r. [in:] "Kroniki Miasta Poznania", Poznań 1993, nr 1–2, p. 19 and B. Zientara: Przemysł II. [in:] Poczet królów i książąt polskich, reader, pp. 212-217.
  90. K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie ("Kronika Miasta Poznania", nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, p. 55.
  91. In 1271 Wolimir, Bishop of Kujawy was appointed vicar in temporalibus; however, he died three years later. Then the cantor Prokop was designated administrator of the Archdiocese of Gniezno. It was only in 1278 when Pope Nicholas III appointed Martin of Opava as the new Archbishop. However, this selection is not accepted by both Bolesław the Pious and Przemysł II and the case was only solved by Martin's death shortly after in his route to Gniezno. The next two candidates proposed: Włościbor (by Przemysł II and Leszek II the Black) and Heinrich von Brehna (by the Papacy) refused their nominations. Finally, the selection of the Chapter in 1283 fell in Jakub Świnka, who, counted with the consent of both Przemysł II and Pope Martin IV, finally ended the vacancy. W. Karasiewicz: Jakób Świnka arcybiskup gnieźnieński 1283–1314, Poznań 1948, pp. 5-10.
  92. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 849.
  93. 1 2 KDW, vol. I, nr 532.
  94. W. Karasiewicz: Jakób Świnka arcybiskup gnieźnieński 1283–1314, Poznań 1948, p. 91. Is suggested that Jakub Świnka give some unknown services to Przemysł II during his incarceration after the Battle of Stolec. There is no direct evidence of this.
  95. S. Krzyżanowski: Dyplomy i Kancelaria Przemysła II, [in:] "Pamiętnik Akademii Umiejętności", no 8 (1890), reg. 10.
  96. KDW, vol. I, nr 542. Cf. J. Pakulski: Stosunki Przemysła II z duchowieństwem metropolii gnieźnieńskiej, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 87-88.
  97. The intervention of Przemysł II in the conflict on the side of Brandenburg, who had been waiting in a good situation to settle down in Pomerania, had a negative view in historiography. K. Jasiński: Tragedia Rogozińska 1296 r. na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko-brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie, [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961, pp. 81–82; A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 113.
  98. KDW, vol. I, nr 536. Recently B. Nowacki: Zabiegi o zjednoczenie państwa i koronację królewską w latach 1284 i 1285 na tle rywalizacji Przemysła II z Henrykiem Probusem, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 153–160, theorized that the relations between Przemysł II and Leszek II the Black weren't correct and the meeting of Sieradz actually was with the voivode of Kraków Żegota, member of the family Toporczyków, who was the leader of the opposition against Leszek II. According to this theory, an agreement was made between the Duke of Greater Poland and the Toporczyków family to overthrow the childless Leszek II and give the throne of Kraków to Duke Konrad II of Czersk. With this procedure, would be impossible to Henry IV Probus to take Kraków. This idea, however, seems unlikely, since the first meeting was held in Sieradz, ie the territory belonging to Leszek II, so he had to known about the details of the discussions held there. Secondly, Bronisław Nowacki assumes that Henry IV Probus was informed about the talks in Sieradz, a fact even more unlikely it becomes apparent that the conspiracy against Leszek II was accorded here, especially if Żegota remained in his post until 1285, until the actual rebellion of the Toporczyków family, which clearly surprised Leszek II, because this is the only way to explain the information given by the Rocznik Traski, who clearly established that rebellion completely surprised Leszek II and only with the help of the Hungarians and Cumans was able to defeat the army of Konrad II in the Battle of Rabą on 3 May 1285; see P. Żmudzki: Studium podzielonego Królestwa. Książę Leszek Czarny, Warsaw 2000, pp. 378–380, footnotes 82-84 on p. 379 and footnote 86 on p. 380; Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 851.
  99. KDW, vol. I, nr 543.
  100. KDW, vol. I, nr 544.
  101. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 850.
  102. Jan Pakulski argues that this could have happened on 30 September. J. Pakulski: Ród Zarembów w Wielkopolsce w XIII wieku i na początku XIV wieku, "Prace Komisji Historii XI", Bydgoskie Towarzystwo Naukowe, serie C, nr 16, 1975, p. 128.
  103. It is also possible that Sędziwój was already in the opposition against Przemysł II and in favor to Henryk IV Probus, and that fire of Kalisz was only a pretext in order to give the castle to the Duke of Wrocław. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 114-116.
  104. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II, książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 94–95.
  105. J. Pakulski: Ród Zarembów w Wielkopolsce w XIII wieku i na początku XIV wieku, "Prace Komisji Historii XI", Bydgoskie Towarzystwo Naukowe, serie C, nr 16, 1975, p. 127.
  106. The return of Sędziwój to Greater Poland seems surprising because was expected that after his betrayal he would remain in the court of Henry IV Probus. Perhaps his return was temporary, in order to include Beniamin in a wider conspiracy against Przemysł II. This could be explained why the Duke of Greater Poland imprisoned both. K. Jasiński: Rola polityczna możnowładztwa wielkopolskiego w latach 1284–1370, RH, XXIX, 1963, p. 221.
  107. KDW, vol. I, nr 562.
  108. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsawa 2006, pp. 115-116, supported the theory that Sędziwój also returned to Greater Poland around this time. See KDW, vol. VI, nr 36.
  109. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 120.
  110. KDW, vol. I, nr 568.
  111. K. Jasiński: Szwedzkie małżeństwo księcia wielkopolskiego Przemysła II (Ryksa, żona Przemysła), [in:] Monastycyzm, Słowiańszczyzna i państwo polskie. Warsztat badawczy historyka, edited by K. Bobowskiego, Wrocław 1994, pp. 69-80.
  112. This was a retaliation for the expulsion of Tomasz II Zaremba, Bishop of Wrocław. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 851.
  113. W. Karasiewicz: Jakób Świnka arcybiskup gnieźnieński 1283–1314, Poznań 1948, p. 21; P. Żmudzki: Studium z podzielonego królestwa. Książę Leszek Czarny, Warsaw 2000, p. 416, speculates that during this meeting Przemysł II gave Ziemomysł of Inowrocław the town of Bydgoszcz. Others believed that this event was earlier, in the meeting of Ląd orchestated by Bolesław the Pious.
  114. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 851; W. Karasiewicz: Działalność polityczna Andrzeja Zaremby w okresie jednoczenia państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII/XIV wieku, Poznań 1961.
  115. A. Swieżawski, Przemysł. Król Polski, Warszawa 2006, p. 121-122. Some historians speculated that he received this nickname for his involvement in the crime of Rogoźno. However, there is no proof of this.
  116. It seems quite unlikely that Przemysł II was completely unaware about the planned expedition. This apparent ignorance could be motivated by a political subtext, facilitating later an agreement with Henryk IV Probus. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 122.
  117. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, Fr. VII, Warsaw 1974, p. 308.
  118. S. Zachorowski: Wiek XIII i panowanie Władysława Łokietka, [w:] Dzieje Polski średniowiecznej w dwu tomach, t. I do roku 1333, Kraków 1926, p. 350.
  119. B. Popielas-Szultka: Przemysł II a Pomorze Zachodnie (stosunki polityczne), [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 149.
  120. E. Rymar: Studia i Materiały z dziejów Nowej Marchii i Gorzowa. Szkice historyczne, Gorzów Wielkopolski 1999, pp. 30-31.
  121. O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie, vol. I, Lwów 1919, pp. 272-275. According to this treaty, the inheritance rights would be in the following way: after the death of Leszek II, his domains were received by Henryk IV, then after his death, Przemysł II, after finally Henry III of Głogów received all from the deceased princes. The agreement was facilitated by the fact that all the princes were then childless.
  122. R. Grodecki: Dzieje polityczne Śląska do r. 1290, [in:] Historia Śląska od najdawniejszych czasów do roku 1400, edited by S. Kutrzeby, vol. I, Kraków 1933, pp. 314-315.
  123. W. Karasiewicz: Jakób Świnka arcybiskup gnieźnieński 1283–1314, Poznań 1948, p. 96.
  124. J. Baszkiewicz: Powstanie zjednoczone państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII i XIV wieku, Warsaw 1954, pp. 386-394.
  125. S. Musiał: Bitwa pod Siewierzem i udział w niej Wielkopolski, [w:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 163.
  126. KDW, vol. II, nr 620.
  127. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 852.
  128. O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 249.
  129. KDW, t. II, nr 631. In this document Przemysł II also expressed his desire to be buried next to his wife.
  130. O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 333.
  131. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 124-127.
  132. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, t. II, s. 852. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, Fr. VII, Warsaw 1974, p. 310, wrongly mentions Henry V the Fat of Legnica as an ally of Henryk IV Probus and part of the fight. However, further analysis of the events clearly indicates that the prince who was in the fight was Bolko I of Opole. See S. Musiał: Bitwa pod Siewierzem i udział w niej Wielkopolski, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 161-166.
  133. Shortly afterwards, and for unknown reasons Władysław I the Elbow-high became in the leader of the coalition, and after the resignation of Konrad of II Czersk managed to control Sandomierz. R. Grodecki: Dzieje polityczne Ślaska do r. 1290. [in:] Historja Ślaska od najdawniejszych czasów do 1400. edited by A. Kutrzeby, vol. I, Kraków 1933, p. 317.
  134. Nagrobki książąt śląskich, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 713; Kronika książąt polskich, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 536,
  135. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 126.
  136. R. Grodecki: Dzieje polityczne Śląska do r. 1290, [in:] Historia Śląska od najdawniejszych czasów do roku 1400, edited by S. Kutrzeby, vol. I, Kraków 1933, p. 317.
  137. poczet.com, Przemysł II (Pogrobowiec)
  138. K. Jasiński: Rodowód Piastów śląskich, vol. I, Wrocław 1973, p. 161.
  139. KDW, vol. II, nr 645.
  140. T. Jurek: Dziedzic Królestwa Polskiego książę głogowski Henryk (1274–1309), Poznań 1993, p. 14.
  141. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 126-128.
  142. They are first-cousins: Przemysł II's mother Elisabeth was sister of Henryk IV's father Henry III the White.
  143. For Oswald Balzer (O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie, vol. I, Lwów 1919, pp. 272–275) the will was to be a proof for the conclusion of the First Piast coalition. The fact that the participation of Greater Poland troops in the Battle of Siewierz, however, reveals hostile relations with Henryk IV after 1287. Some historians (cf. K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 157) believes that the Duke of Greater Poland received the inheritance from Henryk IV in gratitude for his support in his coronation plans. Finally, the hypothesis supported by Tomasz Jurek (T. Jurek: Testament Henryka Probusa. Autentyk czy falsyfikat?, "Studia Źródłoznawcze", XXXV, p. 95) under which the will was in fact a forgery, and in his real testament Henryk IV gave his Lesser Poland domains to Bolko I of Opole.
  144. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, p. 123.
  145. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 127.
  146. Kodeks dyplomatyczny Małopolski, ed. F. Piekosiński, vol. III, Kraków 1887, nr 515.
  147. This is due probably to the principle followed by Przemysł II in the count of his titles. This happened despite the claims made by Władysław I the Elbow-high over Kraków, who even appointed a voivode for this city, although he didn't have real control over the land. J. Bieniak: Zjednoczenie Państwa Polskiego, [in:] Polska dzielnicowa i zjednoczona. Państwo, Społeczeństwo, Kultura, edited by A. Gieysztora, Warsawa 1972, pp. 202-278.
  148. KDW, vol. II, nr 644.
  149. KDW, vol. II, nr 647.
  150. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 133.
  151. KDW, t. II, nr 651, ed. T. Nowakowski, Krakowska kapituła katedralna wobec panowania Przemyślidów w Małopolsce w latach 1292–1306, PH, vol. LXXXII, 1991, no 1, p. 12.
  152. A. Teterycz: Małopolska elita władzy wobec zamieszek politycznych w Małopolsce w XIII wieku, [in:] Społeczeństwo Polski Średniowiecznej, edited by S. Kuczyńskiego, t. IX, Warsaw 2001, p. 80.
  153. T. Nowakowski: Stosunki między Przemysłem II a Władysławem Łokietkiem w okresie walk o Kraków po śmierci Leszka Czarnego (1288–1291), RH, LIV, 1988, p. 159; T. Pietras: Krwawy wilk z pastorałem. Biskup krakowski Jan zwany Muskatą, Warsaw 2001, p. 38; S. Zachorowski: Wiek XIII i panowanie Władysława Łokietka, [in:] R. Grodecki, S. Zachorowski, J. Dąbrowski: Dzieje Polski średniowiecznej w dwu tomach, vol. I to 1333, Kraków 1995, p. 343.
  154. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 136.
  155. KDW, vol. II, nr 657, 658. The departure from Kraków certainly wasn't considered by Przemysł II as an abandonment of the area. Evidence of this was the fact that Żegota, Kraków castellan, joined Przemysł II in his retire. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 135.
  156. Petra Żitovskeho kronika zbraslavska, [in:] Fontes rerum Bohemicarum, vol. IV, edited by J. Emler, Prague 1884, p. 60; T. Jurek: Przygotowania do koronacji Przemysła II, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, Poznań 1997, p. 168.
  157. Cronica Przibconis de Tradenina dicti Pulcaua, [in:] Fontes rerum Bohemicarum, vol. V, edited by J. Emler, Prague 1893, p. 175.
  158. At the head of the Bohemia party was Paweł of Przemankowo, Bishop of Kraków. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 133–134; T. Nowakowski: Małopolska elita władzy wobec rywalizacji o tron krakowski w latach 1288–1306, Bydgoszcz 1992, p. 46.
  159. On the synod Bishop Paweł of Kraków didn't assisted, which is a proof of his support to the Bohemian pretensions. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 142.
  160. Rocznik Kujawski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 209; B. Nowacki: Czeskie roszczenia do korony w Polsce w latach 1290–1335, Poznań 1987, p. 52.
  161. KDW, vol. II, nr 665.
  162. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 852; Rocznik Sędziwoja, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 879.
  163. KDW, vol. II, nr 745.
  164. It unknown the nature of the alliance, but due to the withdrawal of Przemysł II with him after the Congress of Kalisz in 1293 can be assumed that it was a classic treaty of mutual inheritance, from which Przemysł II was relieved after the birth of Henry III's firstborn son Henry (later in 1292). T. Jurek: Dziedzic Królestwa Polskiego książę głogowski Henryk (1274–1309), Poznań 1993, p. 23.
  165. Zbiór dokumentów małopolskich, edited by S. Kuraś and I. Sułkowska-Kuraś, cz. IV, Wrocław 1969, nr 886; KDW, t. II, nr 692. The document is date 6 January.
  166. Evidenced by the agreements about the succession in Kraków. Due to the de facto possession of Wenceslas II over this land, this would bring a future war. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsawa 2006, p. 150.
  167. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 149-150.
  168. O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 342.
  169. W. Dworzaczek: Genealogia, Warsawa 1959, tabl. 3; O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, p. 252. They placed the marriage shortly before the death of Bolesław the Pious.
  170. W. Dworzaczek: Genealogia, Warsaw 1959, tabl. 58; K. Jasiński: Genealogia Piastów wielkopolskich. Potomstwo Władysława Odonica, [in:] Nasi Piastowie ("Kronika Miasta Poznania", nr 2/95), Poznań 1995, p. 156.
  171. K. Jasiński: Uzupełnienia do genealogii Piastów, "Studia Źródłoznawcze", 1960, p. 105.
  172. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warszawa 2006, p. 152.
  173. KDW, vol. II, nr 715.
  174. KDW, vol. II, nr 720.
  175. It is sure that Przemysł II was in Pomerelia on 14 October, since that day he confirmed in Gdańsk economic privileges to Elbląg. KDW, vol. II, nr 726.
  176. The next known document by Przemysł II after 14 October 1294 was issued on 6 April 1295 in Świecie; KDW, vol. II, nr 732. There is no certainty where he was between those dates.
  177. E. Rymar: Rodowód książąt pomorskich., Szczecin 2005, p. 268.
  178. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski., Warsaw 2006, p. 153.
  179. KDW, vol. II, nr 632.
  180. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 853; Rocznik Sędziwoja, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 879; Rocznik wielkopolski 1192–1309, edited by A. Bielowski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 40.
  181. according to the Chronicle of Greater Poland Rocznik wielkopolski 1192–1309, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 40.
  182. Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej 965–1309, [in:] MPH, SN, vol. VI, Warsaw 1962, p. 53.
  183. The consents of the Bishops of Wrocław and Kraków for the coronation are rejected by some historians. Indeed, their approval wasn't required for the validity of the coronation. Z. Dalewski: Ceremonia koronacji Przemysła II, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 211.
  184. O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie 1295–1370, vol. I, Lwów 1919, p. 338.
  185. K. Tymieniecki: Odnowienie dawnego królestwa polskiego, [in:] "Kwartalnik Historyczny", XXXIV, 1920, pp. 48-49.
  186. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 164-165.
  187. Władysław I the Elbow-high and, less likely, Siemowit of Dobrzyń and Bolesław II of Masovia could be present at the ceremony. J. Bieniak: Znaczenie polityczne koronacji Przemysła II, [in:] Orzeł biały. Herb państwa polskiego, edited by S. Kuczyńskiego, Warsaw 1996, p. 51, and T. Jurek: Dziedzic Królestwa Polskiego książę głogowski Henryk (1274–1309), Poznań 1993, p. 31, their assistance doesn't seem possible, because, according to the writings of 14th century chronicler Jan of Czarnków, the Piast princes could be very sensitive to any such restriction of their political freedom. See B. Nowacki: Przemysł II 1257–1296. Odnowiciel korony polskiej, Poznań 1997, p. 147.
  188. For example, there are no preserved informations about a papal consent for the coronations of Wenceslaus II in 1300 and Ryksa-Elisabeth in 1303. Despite this fact, the approval of the Pope by Przemysł II is extremely popular among historians. K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie, Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1999, p. 159, even detailed that the delegation sent to Rome was led by Dominican friar Piotr Żyła.
  189. Chronica Oliviensis auctore Stanislao abbate Oliviensi, Secunda tabula benefactorum, [in:] MPH, vol. VI, Kraków 1893, p. 315.
  190. Petra Zitavskeho kronika zbraslavska, [in:] Fontes rerum Bohemicarum, t. IV, edited by J. Emler, Prague, 1884, p. 60. The author stated that Przemysł II managed to get the crown as a result of misappropriation of funds, which were sent to Rome. A. Barciak: Czeskie echa koronacji Przemysła II, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 225.
  191. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, p. 163.
  192. Perhaps the reason for this recognition was the subsequent marriage of Wenceslaus II to Przemysł II's daughter Ryksa-Elizabeth. Petra Zitavskeho kronika zbraslavska, [in:] Fontes rerum Bohemicarum, vol. IV, edited by J. Emler, Prague, 1884, p. 60.
  193. A. Barciak: Czeskie echa koronacji Przemysła II, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, edited by J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, p. 225.
  194. S. Kutrzeba: Historia ustroju Polski w zarysie, vol. I, Korona, Warsaw 1905, pp. 44-45.
  195. About the Greater Poland Kingdom wrote: S. Kętrzyński: O królestwie wielkopolskim, PH, VIII 1909, p. 131 ff; J. Baszkiewicz: Powstanie zjednoczonego państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII i XIV wieku, Warsaw 1954, p. 242. In turn, emphasized its universal nature (King of all Poland): S. Krzyżanowski: Regnum Poloniae, [in:] "Sprawozdanie Akademii Umiejętności, Wydział Historyczno-Filozoficzny", 1909, nr 5, p. 1; O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie, vol. II, Lwów 1919, p. 321.
  196. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 168-169.
  197. KDW, vol. II, nr 737, 739.
  198. KDW, vol. II, nr 740.
  199. Evidence of this is the sentence in the introduction to the Chronicle: "especially in the reign of King Przemysl", which strictly regulates the editors of the first version of the work for the period between 25 June 1295 (coronation) and 8 February 1296 (death). Kronika wielkopolska, transl. K. Abgarowicz, edited by B. Kürbisówna, Warsaw 1965, s. 44.
  200. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [w:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929.
  201. Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej 965–1309, [in:] MPH, SN, vol. VI, Warsaw 1962, p. 40; K. Jasiński: Tragedia rogozińska 1296 roku na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko-brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie, [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961, s. 71.
  202. Kronika oliwska, ed. Wojciech Kętrzyński, [in:] MPH, vol. VI, Kraków 1893, p. 135. A. Jelicz: By czas nie zaćmił i niepamięć. Wybór kronik średniowiecznych, Warsaw 1975, p. 110.
  203. Liber mortuorum monasterii Oliviensis, ed. W. Kętrzyński, [in:] MPH, vol. V, p. 507.
  204. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", t. V, Poznań 1929, p. 172.
  205. Milliman, Paul (2013). ‘The Slippery Memory of Men’: The Place of Pomerania in the Medieval Kingdom of Poland. Brill. p. 105.
  206. Translation by Karol Górski (K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 198), indicated that possibly the name Peter was taken in baptism, although there is no confirmation of this information in any other source.
  207. Interpretation of the text by K. Jasiński: Tragedia rogozińska 1296 roku na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko-brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie, [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961, p. 72.
  208. Rocznik małopolski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 182.
  209. 1 2 Rocznik Sędziwoja, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 879.
  210. Kronika książąt polskich, ed. Z. Węglewski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, Lwów 1878, p. 541.
  211. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 853.
  212. Lites gestae inter Polonos ordinemque cruciferorum, vol. I, second edition, edited by Z. Celichowski, Poznań 1890, p. 150; K. Jasiński: Tragedia rogozińska 1296 roku na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko–brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie, [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961, p. 90.
  213. Annales Toruniensis, [in:] Scriptores rerum Prussicarum, vol. III, p. 62.
  214. Petra Żitovskeho kronika zbraslavska, [in:] Fontes rerum Bohemicarum, vol. IV, ed. J. Emler, Prague 1884, p 61.
  215. Text from K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 177.
  216. Rocznik świętokrzyski nowy ed. A. Bielowski [in:] MPH, vol. III Normal 0 21, p. 76; B. Nowacki: Przemysł II 1257–1296. Odnowiciel korony polskiej, Poznań 1997, p. 162.
  217. Katalog biskupów krakowskich, ed. W. Kętrzyńsk, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 365.
  218. K. Tymieniecki: Odnowienie dawnego królestwa polskiego, [in:] "Kwartalnik Historyczny", XXXIV, 1920, p. 42; here the author agrees with the version of the Katalog.
  219. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, fr. VIII, pp. 368–372.
  220. Kronika Marcina Bielskiego, ed. K. Turowski, Sanok 1856, fr. I, s. 349, although he pointed that Wenceslaus II was the main responsible for the crime.
  221. Kronika Polska Marcina Kromera biskupa warmińskiego, vol. XXX in three languages: Latin, Polish and German. Polish translation from Latin by Martin from Błażowa Błażowskiego. Currently third edition in Polish, vol. I, Sanok 1868, fr. I, pp. 533–534.
  222. Rocznik Traski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 853.
  223. 1 2 3 4 Rocznik małopolski, [in:] MPH, vol. III, p. 187.
  224. Rocznik Świętokrzyski nowyw: MPH, vol. III, p. 76.
  225. Kalendarz włocławski, ed. A. Bielowski, [in:] MPH, vol. II, p. 942.
  226. Liber mortuorum monasterii Oliviensis, ed. W. Kętrzyński, MPH, vol. V, p. 507.
  227. Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej 965–1309, [in:] MPH, SN, vol. VI, Warsawa 1962, p. 53. This seems extremely surprising because it would seem that this was the best informed source of the events. Perhaps the author had a mistake with the beginning of the carnival in Rogoźno. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II 1257–1296. Odnowiciel korony polskiej, Poznań 1997, p. 157; B. Kürbisówna: Dziejopisarstwo wielkopolskie w XIII i XIV w., Warsaw 1959, pp. 74–80.
  228. Liber mortuorum monasterii Oliviensis, ed. W. Kętrzyński, MPH, vol. V, p. 627; O. Balzer: Genealogia Piastów, Kraków 1895, pp. 243–244
  229. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, fr. VIII, p. 369. Here Długosz gives a double date: 8 February, festivity of Saint Dorothy (Dorothea of Caesarea), who clearly was a mistake because the fest of this Saint are in 6 February.
  230. 1 2 Rocznik kapituły poznańskiej 965–1309, [in:] MPH, SN, t. VI, Warsaw 1962, p. 40.
  231. B. Ulanowski: Kilka słów o małżonkach Przemysława II, [in:] "Rozprawy Akademii Umiejętności w Krakowie. Wydz. Historyczno-Filozoficzny", vol. XVIII, 1884, p. 271, ed. 1; A. Semkowicz: Krytyczny rozbiór "Dziejów Polski" Jana Długosza (do roku 1384), Kraków 1887, pp. 317–318; S. Kujot: Dzieje Prus Królewskich, [in:] "Roczniki Towarzystwa Naukowego w Toruniu", vol. XXII, 1915, pp. 1171–1174; W. Semkowicz: Ród Awdańców w wiekach średnich, [in:] "Roczniki Poznańskiego Towarzystwa Przyjaciół Nauk", vol. XLVI, 1920, p. 187; O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie 1295–1370, Lwów 1919, p. 253; F. Koneczny: Dzieje Polski za Piastów, Kraków 1902, pp. 303–304; T. Tyc: Walka o kresy zachodnie, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. I, 1925, p. 49; K. Tymieniecki: Odnowienie dawnego królestwa polskiego, [in:] "Kwartalnik Historyczny", XXXIV, 1920, pp. 42–44; E. Długopolski: Władysław Łokietek na tle swoich czasów, Wrocław 1951, pp. 32–37; K. Olejnik: Obrona polskiej granicy zachodniej 1138–1385. Okres rozbicia dzielnicowego i monarchii stanowej, Poznań 1970, p. 142; J. Bieniak: Zjednoczenie państwa polskiego, [in:] Polska dzielnicowa i zjednoczona. Państwo, społeczeństwo, kultura, edited by A. Gieysztora, Warsaw 1972, pp. 228–229; J. Bieniak: Przemysł II, [in:] "Polski Słownik Biograficzny", vol. XXVIII/1, fr. 119, pp. 730–731; T. Silnicki and K. Gołąb: Arcybiskup Jakub Świnka i jego epoka, Warsaw 1956, pp. 229–230; J. Baszkiewicz: Powstanie zjednoczonego państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII i XIV wieku, Warsaw 1954, pp. 263–264; P. Jasienica: Polska Piastów, Warsaw 1996, pp. 233–234; A. Jureczko: Testament Krzywoustego, Kraków 1988, p. 76; W. Fenrych: Nowa Marchia – w dziejach politycznych Polski XIII i XIV wieku, Poznań 1959, pp. 31–34; H. Łowmiański: Początki Polski, vol. VI/2, Warsaw 1985, p. 871; J. Dowiat: Polska państwem średniowiecznej Europy, Warsaw 1968, p. 275; K. Ożóg: Przemysł II, [in:] Piastowie. Leksykon biograficzny, Kraków 1997, pp. 160–161; B. Zientara: Przemysł II, [in:] Poczet królów i książąt polskich, Warsaw 1984, p. 217.
  232. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929,
  233. K. Jasiński: Tragedia rogozińska 1296 roku na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko–brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie, [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961; K. Jasiński: Rola Polityczna możnowładztwa wielkopolskiego w latach 1284–1314, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", t. XXIX, 1963.
  234. Z. Boras: Książęta piastowscy Wielkopolski, Poznań 1983; Z. Boras: Przemysław II. 700-lecie koronacji, Międzychód 1995.
  235. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II 1257–1296. Odnowiciel korony polskiej, Poznań 1997; B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995.
  236. E. Rymar: Próba identyfikacji Jakuba Kaszuby, zabójcy króla Przemysła II, w powiązaniu z ekspansją Brandenburską na północne obszary Wielkopolski, [in:] Niemcy – Polska w średniowieczu. Materiały z konferencji naukowej zorganizowanej przez Uniwersytet Adama Mickiewicza w dniach 14–16 XI 1983, ed. J. Strzelczyka, Poznań 1986; E. Rymar: Przynależność polityczna wielkopolskich ziem zanoteckich między dolną Drawą, dolną Gwdą, oraz Wielenia, Czarnkowa i Ujścia w latach 1296–1368, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", t. 50, 1984; E. Rymar: Stosunki Przemysła II z margrabiami brandenburskimi ze starszej linii askańskiej w latach 1279–1296, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997.
  237. W. Karasiewicz: Działalność polityczna Andrzeja Zaręby w okresie jednoczenia się państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII/XIV w., Poznań 1961.
  238. J. Pakulski: Nałęcze wielkopolscy w średniowieczu. Genealogia, uposażenie i rola polityczna XII–XIV w., Warsaw 1982
  239. KDW, vol. II, p. 758.
  240. E. Rymar (Stosunki Przemysła II z margrabiami brandenburskimi ze starszej linii askańskiej w latach 1279–1296, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 142–144) hypothesized that the direct impulse to try to kidnap the king was the decision of Pope Boniface VIII to appointed the Dominican Piotr (who had friendly relations with Greater Poland) as Bishop of Kamień, an event who was clearly unfavorable to Brandenburg. For the House of Ascania then became clear that all the diplomatic pressure against Przemysł II and his alliance with Western Pomerania are doomed to failure and, therefore, they lose any chance of winning Pomerelia.
  241. B. Nowacki: Przemysł II książę wielkopolski, król Polski 1257–1295, Poznań 1995, pp. 141–142.
  242. Rocznik kołbacki, MGH SS, vol. XIX, p. 716
  243. E. Rymar: Próba identyfikacji Jakuba Kaszuby, zabójcy króla Przemysła II, w powiązaniu z ekspansją Brandenburską na północne obszary Wielkopolski, [in:] Niemcy – Polska w średniowieczu. Materiały z konferencji naukowej zorganizowanej przez Uniwersytet Adama Mickiewicza w dniach 14–16 XI 1983, ed. J. Strzelczyka, Poznań 1986, p. 209.
  244. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, pp. 191–192.
  245. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, fr. VIII, p. 369.
  246. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II. [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 173.
  247. E. Rymar: Próba identyfikacji Jakuba Kaszuby, zabójcy króla Przemysła II, w powiązaniu z ekspansją Brandenburską na północne obszary Wielkopolski. [in:] Niemcy – Polska w średniowieczu. Materiały z konferencji naukowej zorganizowanej przez Uniwersytet Adama Mickiewicza w dniach 14–16 XI 1983, ed. J. Strzelczyka, Poznań 1986, p. 209.
  248. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II. [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 198.
  249. K. Jasiński: Tragedia rogozińska 1296 roku na tle rywalizacji wielkopolsko–brandenburskiej o Pomorze Gdańskie. [in:] "Zapiski Historyczne", vol. XXVI, t. 4, Toruń 1961, p. 65.
  250. Rocznik świętokrzyski nowy..., p. 76.
  251. J. Długosz: Roczniki czyli kroniki sławnego Królestwa Polskiego, fr. VIII, p. 271.
  252. O. Balzer: Królestwo Polskie 1295–1370, vol. I, Lwów 1919, pp. 350-351.
  253. T. Jurek: Dziedzic Królestwa Polskiego książę głogowski Henryk (1274–1309), Poznań 1993, pp. 32-34.
  254. B. Śliwiński: Wiosna 1296 roku w Wielkopolsce i na Pomorzu Gdańskim, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 233-235. The fact supporting the idea that fighting occurred in Greater Poland, despite previous historiography (for example E. Długopolski: Władysław Łokietek na tle swoich czasów, Wrocław 1951, p. 35) was the destruction of property belonging to the Bishopric of Poznań. See W. Karasiewicz: Działalność polityczna Andrzeja Zaremby w okresie jednoczenia państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII/XIV wieku, Poznań 1961, p. 31.
  255. J. Bieniak: Wielkopolska, Kujawy, ziemia łęczycka i sieradzka wobec problemu zjednoczenia państwowego w latach 1300–1306, Toruń 1969, pp. 122-123.
  256. E. Długoposki: Władysław Łokietek na tle swoich czasów, Wrocław 1951, pp. 33–34; K. Jasiński: Rola polityczna możnowładztwa wielkopolskiego w latach 1284–1314, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. 39, 1963, p. 227; H. Łowmiański: Początki Polski, vol. VI/2, Warsaw 1985, p. 871. The threat of Brandenburg seems too dangerous that the annexation took place with the consent of the inhabitants of the towns, in the German-Polish border. See E. Rymar: Próba identyfikacji Jakuba Kaszuby, zabójcy króla Przemysła II, w powiązaniu z ekspansją brandenburską na północne obszary Wielkopolski, [in:] Niemcy – Polska w średniowieczu. Materiały z konferencji naukowej zorganizowanej przez Instytut Historii UAM w dniach 14–16 XI 1983 r., ed. J. Strzelczyka, Poznań 1986, pp. 203–224; E. Rymar: Przynależność polityczna wielkopolskich ziem zanoteckich między dolną Drawą i dolną Gwdą, oraz Wielenia, Czarnkowa i Ujścia w latach 1296–1368, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", L, 1984, pp. 39–84, and T. Jurek: Dziedzic Królestwa Polskiego książę głogowski Henryk (1274–1309), Poznań 1993, p. 33; in older historiography the intervention of the Margraves in Greater Poland was doubtful or even never existed. K. Górski: Śmierć Przemysła II, [in:] "Roczniki Historyczne", vol. V, Poznań 1929, p. 189; W. Karasiewicz: Działalność polityczna Andrzeja Zaremby w okresie jednoczenia państwa polskiego na przełomie XIII/XIV wieku, Poznań 1961, p. 19.
  257. B. Śliwiński: Wiosna 1296 roku w Wielkopolsce i na Pomorzu Gdańskim, [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 237-242.
  258. There is no known cause of why was abbreviated the Latin term "et Cra(covie)" and this despite the fact that there is enough space to place the entire phrase. Z. Piec: O pieczęciach, herbach i monetach Przemysła II (Uwagi dyskusyjne), [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp. 181-198.
  259. 1 2 S. Krzyżanowski: Dyplomy i kancelaryja Przemysława II. Studyjum z dyplomatyki polskiej XIII wieku, [in:] "Pamiętnik Akademii Umiejętności, Wydziały Filologiczny i Historyczno-Filozoficzny", vol. VIII, 1890, p. 155.
  260. A. Swieżawski: Przemysł. Król Polski, Warsaw 2006, pp. 145–146; S. Kętrzyński: O dwóch pieczęciach Przemysła II z roku 1290, [in:] "Miesięcznik heraldyczny", II, 1932, pp. 23-24.
  261. KDW, vol. I, nr 49.
  262. Z. Piech: O pieczęciach, herbach, i monetach Przemysła II (Uwagi dyskusyjne), [in:] Przemysł II. Odnowienie Królestwa Polskiego, ed. J. Krzyżaniakowej, Poznań 1997, pp.196-197.
  263. KDW, vol. I, nr 542.
  264. Nowy kodeks dyplomatyczny Mazowsza cz. II. Dokumenty z lat 1248–1355, ed. I. Sułkowska-Kuraś and S. Kuraś in cooperation with K. Paculeskiego and H. Wajsa, Wrocław 1989, nr 76.
  265. KDW, vol. II, nr 625.
  266. KDW, vol. II, nr 635.
  267. KDW, vol. I, nr 585.
  268. KDW, vol. II nr 636, 673, 695, vol. VI, nr 13.
  269. KDW, vol. I nr 521, vol. II nr 617, vol. VI, nr 28.
  270. KDW, vol. I, nr 459, 470, vol. II nr 653.
  271. KDW, vol. I, nr 467, 469, vol. II, nr 729, 744, vol. III, nr 2030.
  272. KDW, vol. I, nr 464.
  273. KDW, vol. I, nr 516, 570, vol. II, nr 679.
  274. KDW, vol. IV, nr 2058.
  275. KDW, vol. I, nr 495, vol. II, nr 661.
  276. KDW, vol. I, nr 519.
  277. KDW, vol. I, nr 511.
  278. KDW, vol. I, nr 528.
  279. KDW, vol. I, nr 574.
  280. KDW, vol. II, nr 640.
  281. KDW, vol. II, nr 665, vol. I, nr 674.
  282. KDW, vol. II, nr 689.
  283. KDW, vol. II, nr 723.
  284. KDW, vol. VI, nr 30.
  285. KDW, vol. I, nr 615.
  286. KDW, vol. II, nr 726.

Bibliography

Chronicles

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Przemysł II of Poland.
Przemysł II
Born: 14 October 1257 Died: 8 February 1296
Regnal titles
Preceded by
Bolesław the Pious
Duke of Poznań
1273–1296
Succeeded by
Władysław I the Elbow-high
Duke of Greater Poland
1279–1296
Duke of Kalisz
1279–1296
Duke of Gniezno
1279–1296
Duke of Wieluń
1279–1281
Succeeded by
Henryk IV Probus
Preceded by
Henryk IV Probus
Duke of Wieluń
1287–1296
Succeeded by
Władysław I the Elbow-high
High Duke of Poland
1290–1291
Succeeded by
Wenceslaus II of Bohemia
Preceded by
Bolesław II the Generous
King of Poland
1295–1296
Preceded by
Mestwin II
Duke of Pomerelia (Gdańsk Pomerania)
1294–1296
Succeeded by
Leszek of Inowrocław
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