Battle of Legnica
Legnica, Poland
What happened
Duke Henry II the Pious of Silesia, High Duke of Poland, led a Polish and Moravian army against a Mongol force led by Baidar and Kadan. In 1241 Mongol armies invaded Europe, and one force rode into Poland to keep northern armies away from the main attack on Hungary. Henry gathered an army and met them at Legnickie Pole, near Legnica in Silesia. Mongol horsemen pretended to retreat, separated Henry's knights from his foot soldiers, and defeated the army. Henry was lost in the battle.
Why it matters
Result: Mongol victory. Leaders: Baidar / Kadan against Henry II / Mieszko II. Why it matters: The defeat left Poland open to Mongol raids. The battle is remembered as one of the key moments of the Mongol invasion of Europe.
What came next
Two days later, another Mongol army defeated the Hungarians at the Battle of Mohi. Henry was buried in Wrocław.
Did you know?
Henry's mother was Saint Hedwig of Silesia.
Timeline
- 1238 CEHenry II becomes Duke of Silesia and High Duke of Poland.
- 9 April 1241 CEThe Mongols defeat Henry's army near Legnica.
- April 1241 CETwo days later, another Mongol army defeats the Hungarians at Mohi.