As a historian with a focus on European history, I'm often asked about the origins of various nations and their formation. The question of who founded Poland is a complex one, as it involves a deep dive into medieval history and the evolution of political entities. To provide a comprehensive answer, let's explore the historical context and key figures involved in the establishment of Poland as a state. Step 1: English Answer The founding of Poland as a state is generally attributed to Mieszko I, who was the ruler of a tribe in the Warta River basin. His dynasty, the Piast dynasty, is considered the first ruling dynasty of Poland. The establishment of a Polish state is often dated to 966 AD, when Mieszko I accepted Christianity, which was a significant step in consolidating his rule and distinguishing his realm from the surrounding pagan tribes. Mieszko I's conversion to Christianity was a strategic move that allowed him to align with the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy, which provided him with political and military support. This alliance helped him to expand his territories and to establish a more centralized form of governance. The baptism of Mieszko I is seen as a pivotal moment in the history of Poland, marking the beginning of its existence as a Christian state. The territories that Mieszko I ruled over were initially referred to as Great Poland (Polska Wielka), which was located in the west of present-day Poland. Concurrently, there were other tribes in the southern regions that formed what was known as Little Poland (Polska Mała). These regions were distinct in their early stages, with different rulers and tribal affiliations. In 1047 AD, Casimir I the Restorer, a descendant of Mieszko I, managed to unite both Great Poland and Little Poland under his rule. This union was a crucial step in the consolidation of the Polish state. Casimir I is remembered for his efforts to restore the unity of the Polish lands and for his contributions to the development of the Polish Church and the legal system. The union of Poland with Lithuania in 1386 through a royal marriage between Jagiellon (the House of Jagiellon, a royal house that originated from Lithuania) and the Polish queen is another significant event in the history of Poland. This union created the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which was a major political and cultural force in Europe for several centuries. It's important to note that the formation of Poland was not an event that happened overnight but a process that evolved over several centuries. The Piast dynasty played a central role in this process, with Mieszko I being a key figure in the establishment of a Polish state. However, the unification of various Polish tribes and regions into a cohesive state was a gradual process that involved multiple rulers and significant political and religious developments. Step 2: Separator read more >>

Great (north) Poland was founded in 966 by Mieszko I, who belonged to the Piast dynasty. The tribes of southern Poland then formed Little Poland. In 1047, both Great Poland and Little Poland united under the rule of Casimir I the Restorer. Poland merged with Lithuania by royal marriage in 1386.read more >>