Sigismund I the Old
Sigismund I the Old (1467-1548) was the King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania from 1506 until his death. He was born into the powerful Jagiellonian dynasty and was the son of Casimir IV and his queen consort Elisabeth. Sigismund was known for his military campaigns, which included successful battles against the Teutonic Knights, and his patronage of the arts and sciences. He also played a key role in the Reformation, allowing Lutheranism to spread in Poland and Lithuania. During his reign, Sigismund strengthened the central government, established a standing army, and founded many important institutions, including the Polish Academy of Sciences. He was also noted for his tolerant policies towards religious minorities, which helped to make Poland a haven for Jews, Protestants, and other religious groups. Sigismund was married three times and had several children, but none of his sons survived him. His daughter, Anna, married the future King of Poland, Stefan Batory, and their son, Sigismund III, would later become King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania. Sigismund I the Old died in 1548 and was succeeded by his grandson. He is remembered as one of the most significant and influential rulers in the history of Poland and Lithuania.
