Grand Duchy of Lithuania (historical entity)

The Grand Duchy of Lithuania was a powerful medieval state existing from the 13th to the 18th century, primarily in what is now Lithuania, Belarus, and parts of Poland and Ukraine. It emerged as a major political and military entity, uniting various Baltic and Slavic lands under a dynastic leadership. By the 14th century, it expanded significantly, incorporating nearby territories and becoming one of Europe's largest states. It was known for its tolerant policies toward different religions and cultures. In 1569, it united with Poland through the Union of Lublin, forming the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which lasted until the late 18th century.