The Grand Duchy of Lithuania

The Grand Duchy of Lithuania was a significant medieval state in Eastern Europe, existing from the 13th to the 18th century. It emerged as a powerful realm that included parts of modern-day Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and Poland. The Duchy was known for its diverse cultures and religions, promoting tolerance. It flourished economically and politically, often in union with the Kingdom of Poland, forming the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Grand Duchy played a crucial role in regional politics, military conflicts, and the cultural development of Eastern Europe before eventually being partitioned and absorbed by neighboring powers.