Jadwiga of Poland

Jadwiga: The First Female Monarch of Poland

Imagine a time when women were not often seen as rulers, yet one stood tall and strong—Jadwiga, the first woman to be crowned monarch of the Kingdom of Poland. Born between October 3 and February 18, 1374, Jadwiga’s journey was marked by both promise and challenge.

The Early Years

Was it fate or destiny that led Jadwiga from her birth in a castle to the throne of Poland? In 1375, plans were made for her to marry William of Austria. But life had other plans. Louis I’s death changed everything, and Mary was crowned ‘King of Hungary.’ The Polish nobility saw an opportunity and chose Jadwiga instead.

The Coronation

On October 16, 1384, in Kraków, Archbishop Bodzanta crowned Jadwiga as the king. This event marked a significant shift not only for Poland but also for women’s roles in governance. She was named after Saint Hedwig of Silesia, and her reign began with the promise of unity and progress.

The Union of Krewo

One of Jadwiga’s most notable achievements was the signing of the Union of Krewo on February 12, 1385. This agreement saw Jogaila, Grand Duke of Lithuania, convert to Catholicism in exchange for marrying Jadwiga and becoming King of Poland as her co-ruler. The union between Poland and Lithuania laid the groundwork for a powerful alliance.

Mediation and Conflict

Jadwiga played a crucial role in mediating conflicts. She worked tirelessly to maintain peace, especially with the Teutonic Order. However, her political power was limited by the strong influence of advisors like Archbishop Bodzanta and Bishop Jan Radlica.

The Birth of an Empire

On January 11, 1386, Jadwiga married Jogaila in a convent, despite initial doubts. The royal couple was crowned on March 4, 1386, transforming Poland into a diarchy. Together, they worked to strengthen the kingdom and protect its people.

Wars and Negotiations

The relationship between Poland and Hungary remained tense. Sigismund of Luxemburg sought to partition Poland with the Teutonic Knights. Jadwiga met Mary in Lithuania, possibly to discuss strategies against Sigismund’s advances. Despite these challenges, she managed to secure the loyalty of Ruthenian governors.

A Legacy of Charity and Faith

Jadwiga’s reign was marked by her commitment to charity and faith. She established hospitals, schools, and churches, promoting the use of vernacular in church services. Her last will partly financed the restoration of Kraków University through the sale of her jewelry.

Her Last Days

Jadwiga became pregnant late in 1398 or early 1399 and gave birth to a daughter, Elizabeth Bonifacia, who died after three weeks. Jadwiga followed four days later on July 17, 1399. She was buried with her daughter at Wawel Cathedral.

The Lasting Impact of Jadwiga

Was Jadwiga’s legacy merely a footnote in history or did she truly leave an indelible mark? Her cultural and charitable activities had a lasting impact on East Central Europe. She is remembered as one of the greatest rulers of Poland, comparable to Bolesław the Brave and Casimir the Great.

She was revered as holy after her death due to her religious zeal and dedication to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Legends about miracles performed by Jadwiga, such as the appearance of ‘Jadwiga’s cross’ and ‘Jadwiga’s foot,’ contributed to her veneration. Her cultural and charitable activities continue to inspire people today.