When did the name Lithuania first appear in historical records?
The name Lithuania first appeared in the Annals of Quedlinburg during 1009. This document marked a missionary expedition by Bruno of Querfurt to the Yotvingians.
Questions about Grand Duchy of Lithuania
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who was the Catholic King of Lithuania and when was he baptized?
Mindaugas became the Catholic King of Lithuania on the 6th of July 1253 after being baptized. His reign lasted only until 1263 when Trenota assassinated him along with his sons Ruklys and Rupeikis.
Which battle marked the zenith of military influence for the Grand Duchy of Lithuania?
The Battle of Grunwald in 1410 resulted in a decisive victory over the Teutonic Order and marked the zenith of military influence for the Grand Duchy. Vytautas commanded the combined Polish, Lithuanian forces while Ulrich von Jungingen led the opposing Teutonic army.
What language served as internal administration language from at least Vytautas time?
Chancery Ruthenian served as internal administration language from at least Vytautas time though probably much earlier. In 1697 Sejm confirmed only Polish would be used in administration despite Ruthenian continuing on few documents until late 18th century.
When did the Constitution of the 3rd of May 1791 transform the Commonwealth into a single country?
The Constitution of the 3rd of May 1791 transformed the Commonwealth into a single country under one monarch eliminating Lithuanian autonomy. Russia invaded the newly reformed Commonwealth in 1792 leading to complete partition among Russian Empire, Kingdom of Prussia, and Austria in 1795 after Kościuszko Uprising.