Władysław I Łokietek

Władysław I Łokietek, known in English as "Elbow-high" or Ladislaus the Short, was born around 1260 and became a significant figure in Polish history. As a member of the royal Piast dynasty, he was the son of Duke Casimir I of Kuyavia and the great-grandson of High-Duke Casimir II the Just. His early years were marked by the inheritance of a small portion of his father's domain, which expanded as some of his brothers passed away at a young age.

In 1289, Władysław made an unsuccessful attempt to incorporate the Duchy of Kraków, following the death of his half-brother Leszek II the Black. His fortunes changed after a period of exile during the reign of Wenceslaus II, as he regained several duchies and ultimately took control of Kraków in 1306 after the murder of Wenceslaus III. His political maneuvers also included temporary control over part of Greater Poland, which he lost and later regained.

A skilled military leader and adept administrator, Władysław conquered Gdańsk Pomerania and entrusted its governance to family members. His alliance with the Teutonic Knights for the defense of this territory led to a prolonged conflict, as the Knights demanded an exorbitant sum or the land itself as an alternative.

Perhaps his most notable achievement was securing papal permission to be crowned king of Poland in 1320, a historic event that took place at Wawel Cathedral in Kraków. Władysław I Łokietek passed away on March 2, 1333, leaving behind a legacy that would be carried on by his son, Casimir III the Great.