2021 Symbols of Lithuania - Lithuanian Rulers - Set

Mindaugas is first mentioned in historical sources in 1219. It is believed that the original Mindaugas estates covered southern Lithuania. 1245 he is already mentioned as the ruler of all Lithuania. In his "reign", Mindaugas annexed the "lands of the Black Russia" to Lithuania. He adopted Catholicism at the beginning of 1251, and a few years later became King of Lithuania. During the reign of Gediminas, the great power of the duke was established in Lithuania, the system of government was strengthened, and the Grand Council of the Duke was formed, to which the regional dukes were invited. Such strengthening of state power has created the conditions for the spread of agriculture, the growth of cities, hobbies and the rise of trade. In letters to Western European cities, Gediminas invited amateurs and merchants to come to Lithuania. Gediminas strengthened Vilnius Castle, established this city as the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.