Historical Figures

Bolesław Krzywousty (1086-1138)

Bolesław Krzywousty after Jan Matejko.

Bolesław Krzywousty (1086-1138) - prince of Poland from the Piast dynasty, son of Władysław Herman. In his youth, he fought against his father and the palatine Sieciech, who ruled the country on his behalf. As a result, in 1102, he obtained his own district, consisting of Małopolska and Silesia. After Władysław Herman's death in 1102, he became an independent prince in part of Polish territory.

He quickly got into a conflict with his older brother Zbigniew. He repulsed the expedition of the German emperor Henry V, defending Zbigniew, then captured and blinded his competitor. He waged long wars with Pomeranians, as a result of which he extended his sovereignty over both Gdańsk and Western Pomerania. Married twice, first to Princess Zbysława of Kiev, and then to the daughter of Count Berg, Salomea.

He had at least fourteen children, including five sons who lived to working years. Before his death, he announced the so-called Wrymouth statute, which was to regulate the rules of inheritance from him. Wrongly regarded as the ruler who led to the break-up of the country's neighborhood. During his time, the chronicle of Gallus Anonymus was published, devoted to a large extent to the achievements of the prince.