Olgerd

Olgerd, also known as Algirdas (Lithuanian: Algirdas; Polish: Olgierd; Latin: Algirdas), was the Grand Duke of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania from 1345 to 1377. He came to power as a co-ruler with his brother Kęstutis after the death of their father Gediminas, with Algirdas governing the eastern and southern lands while Kęstutis controlled the western regions.

During his reign, Olgerd led a series of campaigns that expanded Lithuanian influence into territories previously part of the Kievan Rus, including Volhynia and parts of present-day Ukraine and Belarus. His military efforts against the Golden Horde and neighboring principalities helped establish Lithuania as a major power in eastern Europe and contributed to the duchy’s multi-ethnic character.

Olgerd maintained complex relations with the Mongol rulers who dominated the region, balancing tribute obligations with the pursuit of territorial and political autonomy. He also engaged in conflicts and alliances with the Livonian Order and other Baltic and Rus’ states, using a combination of warfare and diplomatic arrangements to consolidate control over the eastern marches of the duchy.

He was the father of Jogaila, who would later become King Władysław II Jagiełło of Poland; through his son, the Polish and Lithuanian states formed a personal union that would eventually contribute to the creation of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Olgerd died in 1377. His reign is regarded as a turning point that shifted the center of gravity of the Lithuanian state toward the east and set the stage for its continued expansion and political development.