The History of Poland Podcast

We start with the legendary beginnings of the Polish state, face down an army of rats intent on exacting justice, and set the stage for entering the historical era. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   Twitter: @historyofpoland iTunes: Leave a review here.

We jump from the legendary past into the era of recorded Polish history and meet up with a man named Mieszko, the first historical ruler of Poland. We'll join him as he establishes the original state of Poland, fights against the rascally nobleman Wichmann, and begins the process of converting Poland to Latin Christianity. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   Twitter: @historyofpoland iTunes: Leave a review here.

Mieszko continues to turn Poland from an Eastern Pagan state into a Western Christian state. It won't be perfectly smooth sailing, but by the end of his life Mieszko will have left his mark on both Poland and Europe.  Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Twitter: @historyofpoland iTunes: Leave a review here.

Mieszko is gone and the seat of power in the early Polish state lies vacant, only to be filled by Mieszko's son Bolesław. His reign will feature some of the most daring exploits for a state that has only recently been formed, but before we get to that, let's get to know a little bit more about Bolesław, his early years, and about a friend he made named Adalbert. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast  

Adalbert sets off towards Prussia where he meets some fellows who are not at all enthusiastic to see him or his companions. Not to spoil anything, but by the end of his trip I'm guessing that he wished he had brought along those guards Bolesław had lent him.  Silver lining: The Congress of Gniezno is the result of Adalbert's missionary journey, which we'll also be covering this week. Want more History of Poland? Follow us on Twitter! Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Enjoying the podcast? Rate us on iTunes! Have feedback? historyofpolandpodcast at gmail dot com

Bolesław mourns his old friend Emperor Otto III, tries to intervene in the succession crisis in the Empire, picks the losing side, and then ends up in a two-decade war with the Holy Roman Empire that ends with no clear winner. It's a long slog for Bolesław, but luckily for us we get to enjoy it from the comfort of our favorite podcast app. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Speaking of podcast apps, if you're enjoying the History of Poland podcast there are a few things you can do! First, you can leave a review on iTunes here, or you can follow us on Twitter here, or if you're feeling really adventurous you can send me an email at historyofpolandpodcast [at] gmail [dot] com.

Bolesław takes a break from his on-again, off-again war with the Holy Roman Empire to take up arms and invade the territory of the Kievan Rus. Along with his army, his mercenaries, and his ill-advised son-in-law Sviatapolk, Bolesław conquers the city of Kiev. His reign doesn't last for long, but it's a memorable episode in Bolesław's life. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast As I mentioned in the show, if you're enjoying the History of Poland podcast I'd love it if you left a nice review on iTunes here. You can also follow us on Twitter here (where you'll see those cool coins), or if you're feeling really adventurous you can send me an email at historyofpolandpodcast [at] gmail [dot] com.

Bolesław is a mixed bag as far as rulers go, so spend some time with us as we take a minute to evaluate his reputation, how "good" of a ruler he was, and what his legacy is.  PS. As I mentioned, I have a new microphone that's quite nice. But, it's also got a lot of settings I'm still figuring out. At one point in the episode I changed a setting (without realizing it) and started recording more background noise. Fortunately, it wasn't a siren or cars, but there is a gentle noise of birds lightly chirping in the background for about a minute. Hopefully it's nice? Who knows! Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast And as I mentioned, check out our new website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

After a bit of a hiatus, we are back and diving right into some thorny topics. The Holy Roman Empire, the status of the Polish Kingdom, and a little lesson about how even if you share the name of a great ancestor like Mieszko II did, it doesn't mean you're going to share in their success. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

It's the 1030s and the Polish realm has collapsed following the death of Mieszko II, with nary a Piast on the throne to keep it knit together. The task of reunification is left to Mieszko's son, Casimir the Restorer. On his list is not only the reunification of a fragmented nation, but the need to crush a pagan uprising, and to take power without offending the foreign rulers that have been riding roughshod over Poland.  Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast As for my special announcement/request at the end, to get in touch email me at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com or tweet at me @historyofpoland. Every one should let me know what they think, one way or the other.  

Welcome to the History of Poland Podcast. Subscribe today wherever you listen to podcasts. Get in touch: historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com @historyofpoland Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast

As part one of our series on the life and tempestuous times of Bolesław II, we'll dive into his ascent to power as the head of the Piast family in its continued rule over the Polish state, explore some Hungarian history, and see yet another Polish leader invade Kiev. Also, if you're interested in supporting the show or finding out more about the upcoming mini-series on the origins of the Holy Roman Empire, visit our Patreon page here: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

We're going to take a short break from following the life and times of Bolesław II the Generous and focus on what's happening in Europe in general. That means the Investiture Controversy between Emperor Henry IV of the Holy Roman Empire and Pope Gregory VII. It's not strictly related to Poland, but it does impact what's going to happen in Poland's near future. If you're interested in supporting the show or finding out more about the upcoming mini-series on the origins of the Holy Roman Empire, visit our Patreon page here: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

We're back to talk about Bolesław II's domestic policies, infrastructure projects, unique fall from grace, excommunication, and talk through some of the myths and legends that surround the eventual fate of this former King of Poland. It'll be the last King we deal with for awhile, as Poland is going to go through some rough times. Enjoy it while it lasts! If you're interested in supporting the show or finding out more about the upcoming mini-series on the origins of the Holy Roman Empire, visit our Patreon page here: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

After meeting Władysław last time, we're going to continue with his life and times and examine what his rule looked like. Spoiler alert! It's not stable, peaceful, or idyllic. We'll meet up with his sons, Zbigniew and Bolesław III, his Count Palatine Sieciech, and his wives, Judith and Judith. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

The Piast family has had a rough time of it lately. Władysław is an imperfect ruler (to say the least), Sieciech is undermining the entire dynasty, and the issue of succession is really making a mess of things. Yet, of the entire cast I feel most sorry for Zbigniew. He didn't ask to be shipped off to a convent, put in charge of a rebellion, and cast aside like an unwanted child. Yet he was.  Maybe things will improve for him this time? We'll see. In the meantime, sign up for the newsletter here: historyofpolandpodcast.com ---- Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

We'll finally say goodbye to both Władysław and his Count Palatine Sieciech in this episode, which as far as I'm concerned isn't soon enough. Let's just say they weren't the most inspired or capable rulers. But what of Władysław's sons? Well, we'll see the very earliest signs that while they are capable of cooperating, they are likely more interested in consolidating power and edging out the other. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

Bolesław and Zbigniew do not get along, that much is clear. We'll follow along as they try to find a way to peacefully coexist and then very quickly thereafter decide that it's not worth the effort. We've also got a special treat this time: music made especially for this podcast. We've taken one of the songs Gallus records for us, added a melody, and had it performed — by none other than some members of the Gilbert Family. Thanks family! Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

The rift between Zbigniew and Bolesław continues to grow, ultimately leading to open hostilities. But! Not before the two sides dance the dance of diplomacy and the chess match that is foreign entanglements. We'll meet the current king of Hungary, see what happens when you decide to invade Pomerania (again), and the impact that betrayal has on familial relations. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.

Bolesław and Zbigniew's ongoing struggle for supremacy crosses borders, as Bolesław takes the fight into Pomerania. In the process, Zbigniew finds himself exiled from Poland.  Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

As we return to the ongoing struggle for supremacy in Poland, we see battle lines drawn between Polish forces and their German and Bohemian counterparts. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast   Special sound effects courtesy of Tristan Lohengrin and Yap Audio Production.

We learn quite a few lessons in this episode. Bohemians go up and down like a wheel, sure. But chiefly we learn that in a fight of bread versus political willpower, bread always wins. And yes, of course, some lessons about the Piast dynasty. But I know you really come for bread-related quotes. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Farewell Zbigniew. Yes, in this episode we say goodbye to our old friend Zbigniew. But! Not before he undergoes some brutal treatment at the hands of his half-brother. Eastern European history is never boring!   Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Pomerania has been a land of mystery for much of the time that we've explored the history of Poland. No more! We start to pull the curtain back on this swampy land to the north. And in the process, we encounter Jerusalem. Yes, Jerusalem. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.  

As we continue in our series on Pomerania, we'll take a look at Poland's relationship to the early Crusades and how these northern lands factor into that equation. We'll also say a fond farewell to Gallus Anonymous, who has been with us from the beginning. Thanks for the good times Gallus. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast   ---- To learn more check out our website at historyofpolandpodcast.com, get in touch at historyofpolandpodcast@gmail.com, or follow us on Twitter @historyofpoland.  

The wars in Pomerania continue, with a special guest appearance: a rebellion! Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Yes, yes, Pomerania dominates the headlines.* This time though, we'll be approaching Pomerania through the eyes of a man named Otto. Specifically, one Otto of Bamberg. *Headlines of 1100s, that is. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

We wrap up our series on the joint Polish-German conquest of Pomerania with a focus on the missionary journeys of Otto of Bamberg. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Bolesław III Wrymouth has been with us for a long time. But, all things must come to an end. We wrap up his life with a special episode talking about his last will and testament, the Congress of Merseburg, and some info on the Hungarian succession. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Władysław II becomes High Duke (Grand Duke) of Poland, but not for long. As we discuss, Bolesław may have been wise to pay more attention to his Ancient Roman history classes. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Bolesław IV the Curly becomes High Duke of Poland, as the next in a long line of rotating Piast relatives who all want to be in charge, but hate it when anyone else is. We also talk Crusades (again). Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Bolesław IV the Curly's reign continues, this time with the highlight being his early porto-crusade against the Prussians. We'll also spend some time getting to know the rest of the Piast family. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Mieszko the Old takes a stab at running Poland and finds that he's not really cut out for it. Which is too bad, since his successor is also not cut out for it. In fact, it seems like no one is really equipped to be Grand Duke, which raises the question of why the position exists. But I digress… Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Casimir the II seemed like he'd be a good ruler, since he could hardly be worse than Mieszko the Old. But, it turns out that just because the inept guy leaves, it doesn't mean someone competent will take his place. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Instagram: @polandpodcast Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

It should come as a surprise to no one that Casimir the Just ends up in conflict with his brother, Mieszko the Old, once again. It should also come as no surprise that it was for what the professionals call, "a real dumb reason." Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Casimir is dead, so Mieszko the Old seizes the moment and puts himself in power. But it's not permanent. But neither is the impermanence. I'll be honest, this period in Polish history is a bit of a mess. But it's our mess, so we'll get through it together. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

The newest rivalry in Medieval Europe is between two close relatives, Leszek the White and Władysław Spindleshanks. But, while the drama is between relatives, the real meat of this story centers on the character and actions of Roman, Duke of Vladimir and Grand Duke of Kiev. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

There's a lot going on in the life of Leszek the White. He's got the Rus to deal with, King Andrew of Hungary to keep happy, internal rebellions, and rumors of a group of people called the Tartars to the east. But if there's one thing he should be on the lookout for, it's the double-cross/double-cross. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

This may come as a surprise, but Poland is about to descend into civil war. All the while, there are incursions in Prussia, there's a Mongol storm brewing in the East, and there are Teutonic Knights showing up to “help” fight all comers. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

The Piasts continue to fight with one another in what feels a lot like an interminably long civil war. This time, Henry the Bearded comes out on top, but will it last? And will there be repercussions for these short-sighted wars? Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

At long last, the Mongol Invasion of Poland has arrived. They sweep in from the east, leaving destruction in their wake. Will Poland make a successful stand? Find out in this episode! Also featuring Hospitallers from France, the Hungarian Army, the Cumans, the Teutonic Knights, and pretty much every one else playing a role in Eastern Europe Medieval politics. Support the show on Patreon (and get the upcoming series on the Mongol Invasion of Europe): patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

Following the Mongol Invasion of Poland, the Poles try to come to grips with their new reality. Do they decide to unite and create a unified state? No, no they do not. Instead, Conrad of Masovia takes the lead and attempts to conquer as much land as possible. Tune in to find out how that goes. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast  

The Fragmentation of Poland is not being kind to the people of Poland. In this episode, we're going to cover a great deal of time, but there's a point to it all. To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 or via RSS at rss.worldsendpodcast.com/rss Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Leszek the Black tries his hand at ruling Poland, but will he succeed! He will not! Or, he will, but it's not the most idyllic time in Poland. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

The Piast family finally realizes that they've been making a terrible mistake in fighting against one another. So, they take it upon themselves to name a new king: Przemysł II. It goes about as well as you'd expect. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Vaclav II and Vaclav III deal with the force that is Władysław, Heir to the Kingdom of Poland. They also deal with the fact that no matter how many Vaclav's there are, there'll never be enough. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 or find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Władysław the Elbow-High becomes King Władysław the Elbow-High, but that doesn't mean his life is going to be all roses and fun times. No, he has quite a lot on his plate - but will he be able to successfully balance it all? We also explore the Sword of Damocles, so that's fun! Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 or find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

King Casimir the Great picks up where his father, Władysław the Elbow-High, left off. But unlike his warmongering father, Casimir strikes out with a bent towards diplomacy. It's mostly successful. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 or find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

The Teutonic Order and King Casimir try to work things out, but a lot of people keep getting in the way. Pesky Popes! Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast To subscribe to my new history podcast, World's End: The Great War, visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worlds-end-the-great-war/id1462156287 or find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Casimir turns his eye to the east and see some land for the taking. Specifically: Ruthenia. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

We wrap up our time with King Casimir the Great by talking about his final years as King, what made him “the Great,” and the Congress of Kraków. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

The ascension of King Louis the Great to the throne of Poland was not all it was cracked up to be. Instead, it was a middling affair that was eclipsed by the events it set up. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

In this episode we're going to very briefly cover the complete history of the state of Lithuania. Definitely won't skip anything. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Władysław II Jagiełło takes the throne in Poland but faces dissent at home in Lithuania. Also, there are the Teutonic Knights to deal with, what with the Battle of Grunwald and all. The 1400's were a happening time. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Due to the efforts of King Casimir III and the events of the Thirteen Years War, the Teutonic Order as it had once existed is effectively at an end. But that's not all! We also discuss Elisabeth of Austria, the Privilege of Nieszawa, and much more. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Casimir IV had so many kids we can't even follow them all. So instead of trying, we're going to focus on the three sons that became King of Poland: John Albert, Alexander, and Sigismund the Old. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Sigismund II Augustus reigns during a time of cataclysmic change in Europe. The Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Counter-Reformation rages, while poor Sigismund keeps having his wives murdered by his mom. The outcome? A complete change in Polish politics that endured for centuries. Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Henry de Valois is ambitious but his brother is already King of France. And so, he has to settle for another throne (poor Henry): the throne of Poland. But how long will he last? Henrician Articles in English Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Stefan Batory fills the power vacuum left by the departed Henry de Valois. But will his efforts to reform multiple parts of the Polish and Lithuanian states simultaneously be enough to fight off Ivan the Terrible? Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast

Sigismund the Third takes the throne after facing off against the Hapsburg Archduke Maximilian the Third. Stepping into the limelight, this member of the House of Vasa and heir to the Swedish throne immediately grates against the interests of the Polish nobility. Is he an absolutist monarch, or merely too avid a player of court tennis? Support the show(s) on Patreon: patreon.com/historyofpolandpodcast Follow along on Twitter: @historyofpoland Follow along on Facebook: History of Poland Podcast