Network of connections as a tool for forming a common identity. A contribution to discussion about reaching a national identity in late medieval Silesia
The author is underlining in his study that a steady network of various connections existed in late medieval Silesia with the centre in Wrocław (Breslau). Joining the network was followed by political implications and in the same time integration of Silesian dukes and local communities with the land of Silesia. New identifying factors were: common political actions and defense of the country against external dangers what strengthened feeling of being the part of the Silesian political community. These new factors either strengthened or neglected older factors as i.e. Silesian dukes’ common ancestry of Piast dynasty. Particular elements of Silesian network of connections had different duties to do. Wrocław in the middle of 15th century kept a common chancery and was sending letters. A network of Wrocław messengers developed in 1460s. During the struggle for Bohemian Crown Wrocław supported Matthias Corvinus, therefore connection with his court was quite frequent. Generally Wrocław was a main source of information for other Silesian duchies. Another element of the network was Świdnica (Schwiednitz). Its representative was in Wrocław in order to inform the authorities of Świdnica about the negotiations with Matthias Corvinus. In return Świdnica informed Wrocław about the situation in Bohemia.