Poland - Revision history

Admin: /* 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. */

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1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof.

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:57, 26 October 2025
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	In Poland its an affront to call a Man Cossack; as in Italy, Ca∣labrian; in Germany, Switzer; in Spain, Galician; in Sueden, Fin∣lander; in France, Norman; in England, Welchman, &c.</blockquote>		In Poland its an affront to call a Man Cossack; as in Italy, Ca∣labrian; in Germany, Switzer; in Spain, Galician; in Sueden, Fin∣lander; in France, Norman; in England, Welchman, &c.</blockquote>

			=== 1694. The great historical, geographical and poetical dictionary by Louis Moreri. ===
			<blockquote>Poland, called by the Inhabitants Polska, from the word Pole or Pola, which in the Sclavonian Tongue signifies a Plain, is an Elective Kingdom of Europe, that comprehends the Ancient German Sarmatia, and the Eastern part of Germany, towards the Vistula. It's now much greater than formerly, because Lithuania, and several other Provinces are united to it. For before it was but barely what we call'd the Great and Little Poland. It has Muscovy and Tartary to the East, Transilvania and Moldavia to the South, Germany to the West, and to the North the Baltic-sea, Livonia, part of White-Russia or Muscovy. This Country may be divided into Lithuania and the Kingdom of Poland, which again is subdivided into the Greater and Lesser Poland, in which last stands Cracovia, the Capital of all the Kingdom. In Great Poland are the Cities of Posnan, Kalisch, Gnesna, &c. Besides which it comprehends the Provinces of Mazovia, wherein are Warsaw and Ploczko, Cujavia wherein is Uladislaw, Royal Prussia that takes in Dantzick, Elbing, &c. and Russia Nigra, with the Cities of Leopold, and Prezmysi. Lithuania, wherein are the Cities of Wilna, Novogrodeck, Minks, &c. is divided into Volhinia, which takes in the Cities of Lucko, Kiow, &c. Podolia, where is Kaminieck, &c. Polesia, in which stands Bressici and Samogitia, whose Capital is Medniki. This Kingdom may moreover be divided into 34 Palatinates, each Palatinate having Castellans under them, that in the whole Country amount to the number of 87. There are in it two Archbishopricks, which are those of Gnesna and Leopold, and fifteen Bishopricks, several Abbies and Universities as Cracovia, Royaumont, Konigsberg, Zamoski, &c. The Air of Poland is very good but piercing, the Soil very fertil but woody, especially in Great Poland. It has Silver and Iron Mines, Wine and excellent Fruits; abounds in Honey, Wax, Venison, Fowl, Wood for Building, Bevers, Otters, Elks and such other Wild-beasts, Copper, Lead, Iron, and especially fine Steel. The Gentry are Tall and Strong, manage their Fauchons with much Address and Dexterity, and are both Learned and Liberal; but yet Fierce, Proud, Obstinate and Jealous of their Liberties. This Obstinacy and Jealousie of their Liberty has often given the Tartars and Muscovites an opportunity to over-run and destroy a great part of their Country, aed was the reason why the King of Sweedland, with an Army of forty thousand, reduced to the last Extremity, a Country whose least Armies generally surpassed 200000 Fighting Men. For their misunderstanding is such, and the Authority of their Prince so little, that before the Diet is assembled and the Gentry come to a Resolution, the Enemy have time to doe what they please, there being no Place of Strength to put a Stop to them until they come to Warsovia. The Polanders are good Soldiers, especially the Cavalry, being armed with a Carbine, two Pistols, an Hatchet at one Side and Fauchon at the other, with a Quiver full of Arrows, and a Bow behind their Backs, which they make use of after they have discharged their Fire-Arms, when the Enemy runs. They are great Travellers, faithfull, obliging, and civil to Strangers, magnificent in their Cloaths and Entertainments, which are frequent among them. They use a great quantity of Saffron, Spice and Sugar. In their Masses they pretend to a great deal of Devotion, fast Fridays and Saturdays, but will be drunk, and fight lustily on those days. The Peasants are the poorest Wretches in the World, having nothing in proper and being Subjects to Lords that treat them worse than Gally-slaves. The Noblemen have power of Life and Death over their Domesticks and Peasants, and if a Neighbour kills a Boor, it's but paying the Price he is rated at, and the Business is made up. And whereas in other Countries a Nobleman is said to be worth so much a year, here he is said to be Master of so many Slaves, who work hard, live on little, and dwell in pitifull Cabins, daubed with Mud and covered with Straw. Their Children play, eat and sleep with the Pigs, whilst the Father makes use of his Horse's Manger and Coris-stall for Table and Bed. There are no Inns in the Country. The Gentlemen, when they travel, lodging with their Friends, or being treated by the Boors, who are obliged to entertain them upon such occasions. If any of the Gentry happens to be taken Prisoner, the King is obliged to ransome him. Their Drink is Beer and Metheglin. They drink no Water because it stinks in Poland where it stands in the Plains. Their Women are of short Stature, very simple, yet want not good Manners. The Men are somewhat Jealous, and entrust them only with their nearest Kindred when they are in the Wars or absent from home. They speak there the Sclavonian Tongue. Besides which they all speak Latin. The first Duke of this Kingdom was Lechus, who began his Reign about 550. His Posterity continued in fourteen Descents, to Micislaus, or Miesko, who began to reign in 964, and who was the first Christian Duke. Boleslaus, the Son of Micislaus, received the Title of King from Otho, Emperor of Germany, when that Prince visited the Tomb of St. Adelbert, who was killed by the Prussians. This King left Micislaus IId. the Father of Casimir Ist. to whom his Son Boleslaus IId. succeeded. This last, surnamed The Cruel, put to Death Stanislaus, Bishop of Cracovia, whereupon Poland was deprived of the Title of Kingdom until Primislaus was chosen King in 1295. Lewis, King of Hungary, chosen after Casimir the Second, left two Daughters, the youngest of which, called Heduvige, being declared Queen, married Jagellon, Duke of Lithuania, who thereupon became Christian, and took the Name of Ladislaus IVth. and united his Territories to Poland in 1386. He had for Successors Ladislaus Vth. Casimir, John, Albert, Alexander, Sigismond I. and Sigismond II. which last dying without Issue in 1572. the Polanders chose Henry Duke of Anjou, Son to King Henry II. of France, who was crowned there in 1574. but coming to France, to succeed his Father Charles IXth. in 1576. some of the Electors named Stephen Bathori Prince of Transilvania, and another part Maximilian Archduke of Austria, which occasioned a War, wherein the first got the better; but dying without Children in 1586, Sigismond IIId. Son of John, King of Sweedland, was put upon the Throne in 1587, and after his Father's death took Possession of the Crown of Sweedland; but the Sweeds revolted, and chose Charles Prince of Sudermania, Sigismond's Uncle, made War against Poland, and possessed themselves of Riga in 1625. Sigismond died in 1632. His Son Ladislaus succeeded, who dying in 1648, John Casimir was chosen to succeed him. He voluntarily abdicated the Crown, and was succeeded by Michael Koribut Wiesnoviski, who died in 1672, and has for his Successor John Sobieski, who is the XXXIId. King of Poland, renowned for his Relief of Vienna. As to Government, Poland is Monarchical and Aristocratical. Monarchical, because they have a King; but Aristocratical, because this Prince's Power is so limited that he cannot, without the Consent of the Senators, undertake any considerable Matters. Others add to the two former, a Democracy or Popular Government, which is that of the Nobles. The Archbishop of Gnesna, Primate of the Kingdom, has the Administration during the Interregnum. He assembles the States for the Election of a new King, appoints the time and place for it. The King being chosen by the Plurality of Voices, this Prelate calls him into the middle of the Assembly, and then leads him to the Church, where he swears, he will preserve the Privileges of the Kingdom, and observe the established Laws, which oblige him to doe nothing without the Approbation of the States. In Business of Importance the King sends by his Chancellor Letters, which he calls Instructionis Litterae, to the Palatines, to acquaint them with what he designs to propose to them, and the time that he would have them come to Court. Upon the Receipt of these Letters, each Senator examines in particular the Nature, Quality and Consequences of the Propositions, to which he has full liberty to make what Answer he thinks suits best with the publick and his own private Interest. The King sends his Letters also into the Palatinates, to assemble the Gentry who chuse a Nuncio, that is, a Man of Parts and Capacity to appear for the Province; but they must all agree unanimously in their choice; for if but a private Gentleman refuses his Suffrage, it hinders the Election, and the Province from having either Vote or Privilege in the States. When these Provincial Assemblies are ended the Senators and Nuncio's come to Court, where the King, attended by his Chancellor proposes the thing a-new, and hears their advices. If they all agree, nemine reclamante, nemine dissentiente, as they speak, things go well. If they differ, then the Diet breaks up, and each returns to his home. Among the Cities, none but Cracovia, Dantzick and Vilna have the privilege to send Deputies to the Diet that sit among the Nobles. Their Provincial Assemblies being open to the meanest Peasant, the Enemies of the State never fail to know what is debated in them, to the great Disappointment of their Undertakings. The King's principal Revenue consists in the Salt-pits near Cracovia, in the Copper, Lead and Silver Mines, and Tribute from the Jews. The Crown-General has great Incomes, and by virtue of his Office, is Grand-Master of the King's-Houshold, Grand-Master of the Ceremonies, Introductor of Embassadors, Lord High Steward, Sovereign Judge, &c. The Generals of the Kingdom and Lithuania have a Sovereign and unlimited power in the Field. Besides Palatines and Chatelains, the Towns have their Burgraves, Judges and Magistrates. As to their Religion, they were formerly Idolaters, and adored the same Divinities that the Greeks, Romans and Germans did. Tertullian affirms in his Treatise against the Jews, that the Gospel was preached in Sarmatia, but we know it was not received in that of Europe, which is Poland, till the tenth Age. The Reformation, about 1535, begun in these Countries, but was never generally embraced. The Greek Church has some footing here too. But the most general is the Roman Catholick. Gregory Pauli, Minister of Cracovia, preached Arianism there about the year 1566, but Sigismund Augustus expelled him, together with George Blandrata, Lelio Socini, Valentin Gentil, and some others. Faustus Socini, who gave Name to the Socinians, came afterwards, and left his Disciples there; who continued till 1660, when they were banished by K. John Casimire.</blockquote>

	=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===		=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===

Admin: /* 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. */

2025-04-06T15:02:11Z

1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof.

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:02, 6 April 2025
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	Archbishopricks 4, Bishopricks 24, Universities 5.</blockquote>		Archbishopricks 4, Bishopricks 24, Universities 5.</blockquote>

			=== 1694. The present state of the universe by John Beaumont. ===
			<blockquote>POLAND. (Book Poland)

			I. POland, from the year 694, that Lochus of Croatia was the first Duke, has been Govern'd by Dukes Palatines, Kings and Dukes again, till the year 1295, that Pri∣mislaus, surnam'd Posthumus, Duke of Posna, again assum'd the name of King, which continued ever since to his Suc∣cessors of the same Family, till the year 1574. Henry, Duke of Anjou, Son to Henry the Second, King of France, was chosen on the death of Sigismund-Augustus, who was the first Stranger to the Blood.

			John the Third, of the Illustrious Family of Sobieski is the pre∣sent King of Poland, &c. Elected King March 20. 1674. being before Senator, Grand Marshal and Generalissimo of the Armies of the Crown: he made his solemn entrance at Cracow, Jan. 3. 1676. and was crown'd there on the second of February following, by the Bishop of that place, call'd Olzaski. He married, before his coming to the Crown, a French Lady, nam'd Maria Casimire de la Grange, Daughter to Henry de la Grange, Knight, Marquess of Arquien, Lord of Beaumont, Master of the Camp of a Regi∣ment of Cavalry, and Captain Colonel of the hundred Switzers of the Guard of the late Monsieur, Duke of Orleans. This Prin∣cess was crown'd on the same day with her Husband, and has brought him many Children.

			* 1. Prince James, born An. _____ and An. 1691. he married Hedewig-Elizabetha-Amalia, youngest Daughter save one to Philip-William, Duke of Neuburg, and Elector Palatine.
			* 2. Prince Alexander, born about the year 70.
			* 3. John, born An. _____
			* 4. Casimire, born An. _____
			* 5. Leopold, born An. _____

			* 6. The Princess Louise▪ Adelaia, born Oct. 3. 1677. held at the Font of Baptism by the Palatine of Russia, for his late Majesty Charles the Second, King of Great Britain, &c. This Princess was Baptised with the Water of the River Jordan, whereof the King her Father▪ just before her birth, had been presented with a Pot full, as also with many other rarities from Asia.

			II. As King of Poland, he bears Quarterly▪ In the First and Fourth, Gules, an Eagle Argent, crown'd, membred and becked Or, for Poland. In the Second and Third, Gules, a Cavalier arm'd Argent, holding a Sword with the Right Hand, of the same; and a Shied Azure, in the Left; charg'd with a Cross, Or, with double Cross-Barrs, his Horse barded Azure, and nail'd Or, for Lithuania. On the whole Azure a Buckler Or, for Sobieski. For a Crest, a Crown rais'd with eight small Flowers, and clos'd with eight Semicircles, terminating in a Mond Or; which is the Crest of Poland. The Shield environ'd with the Orders of France. The general Motto of the Kings of Poland, is, Habent sua sydera Reges. His Livery is of a Blew Colour. He professes the Roman Religion, but Greeks, Protestants and other Sects are there tolerated. He uses the Poland Longuage, wich is a Dialect of the Sclavonian.

			III. Warsaw, seated on the River Vistula, is most frequented, best traded, and the Capital City of the Kingdom; honour'd, for the most part, with the Kings Court, the holding of all Publick business of Peace and War. Cracow, seated on the same River, is little inferiour to the former, the Buildings here being fairer than elsewhere in Poland, of Freestone, and four Stories high; but, for the most part, cover'd with Shingles, or Tiles of Wood.

			IV. The Revenues of this King are computed to be 600000 Crowns per annum, drawn chiefly out of Salt-works, near Cra∣cow; and from Mines of Copper, Lead, Tin, and Silver: from the fishing Trade in Prussia, and the Tribute of the Jews. His Daughters are provided for at the Publick Charge; and for the most part, the expence of his Houshold defray'd. In time of War he is inabled by the Diets to lay Impositions and Taxes on the people.

			In Poland its an affront to call a Man Cossack; as in Italy, Ca∣labrian; in Germany, Switzer; in Spain, Galician; in Sueden, Fin∣lander; in France, Norman; in England, Welchman, &c.</blockquote>

	=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===		=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===

Admin: /* 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. */

2025-03-26T00:54:42Z

1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof.

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:54, 26 March 2025
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	Ducal Prussia, wherein stands Konigsberg, belongs to the Elector of Brandenburg, who now possesses its Soveraignty, and independantly on Poland. This City is so much the greater, in that it contains two others in one and the same compass of Walls. Pilau and Memel are two Maritime Fortresses, the most important of this State. There it was the Elector caused Frigats four years ago to be fitted out, which have very much incommoded the Commerce of the Subjects of Spain. Gourland is a Dutchy whose Duke of the House of Ketler, does Homage to the Crown of Poland. His Residence is at Mitaw.</blockquote>		Ducal Prussia, wherein stands Konigsberg, belongs to the Elector of Brandenburg, who now possesses its Soveraignty, and independantly on Poland. This City is so much the greater, in that it contains two others in one and the same compass of Walls. Pilau and Memel are two Maritime Fortresses, the most important of this State. There it was the Elector caused Frigats four years ago to be fitted out, which have very much incommoded the Commerce of the Subjects of Spain. Gourland is a Dutchy whose Duke of the House of Ketler, does Homage to the Crown of Poland. His Residence is at Mitaw.</blockquote>

			=== 1691. A most compleat compendium of geography by Laurence Echard. ===
			<blockquote>THE, Kingdom of Poland lies on the W. of Russia, on the E. of Germany, and N. of Turky in Europe; situated between the 35th and 40 min. and the 58th and 28 min. of Lon and between the 57th and 25 min. and the 47th and 30 min. of Lat. being in length from the borders of Brandenburg, to the E. parts of Vkrane about 880 miles; the breadth from the N. parts of Curland to the S. parts of Russia Rubra about 580 miles. It was part of the ancient Sarmatia Europea, and part of the old Germany, sometimes called Weonodland, now Poland by the Natives, Poloska; by the Germans, Die Polen; and by the French, Pologne.

			It was anciently governed by Dukes for about 400 years, and then by their Kings, which Government still continues. At present it is an aggregate Body of several Provinces united into one Estate; the King is elective, and must be of the Roman Catholick Religion. Part of this Country is under the K. of Sweden, D. of Brandenburg, and D. of Curland, (who is tributary) and some parts of Vkrane is in a manner free. The King's Seat is at Warsaw, but the ch. T. is Cracow.

			The Inhabitants tolerate all Religions, but the Roman Catholick is most predominant, next that of the Greek Church. Their Language is a Dialect of the Sclavonian or Sarmatian, yet it differs much from it; in some of the S. E. parts they speak the Cosack or Tartarian. Their chief Commodities are Wax, Linnen, Boards, Masts for Ships, Pitch, rich Furs, Salt, Amber, Ashes, Soap, Corn, Milk, Butter, Cheese, Rozin, &c. It is divided into twelve great Provinces, which are,

			* 1. Dukedom of Curland, the most N. Pr. including the Pr. of Semigellin, 220 m. l. & 90 br. ch. T. are Mittaw and Godlingen, reckoned by some a part of Livonia; now under its own (almost) independent Dukes.
			* 2. Province of Samogitia, on the S. of Curland, sometimes (as were several of these Provinces) a part of Russia, 195 m. l. & 120 br. divided into three Counties; ch. T. are Rossienne and Schovenden.
			* 3. Dukedom of Lithuania, on the S. E. of Samogitia, 440 m. l. & 280 br. It contains eleven Provinces, the eight first being Palatinares. 1. Polockzkien, 2. Braslawen, 3. Wilna, 4. Troki, 5. Novogrod, 6. Minskien, 7. Witepskien, 8. Mscislawen, 9. Ter. of Rzeczyca, 10. D. of Sluczk, 11. Ter. of Rohaczow; ch. T. are the same. Wilna is ch. T. of the whole.
			* 4. Dukedom of Prussia, on the N. of Lithuania, 250 m. l. & 108 br. divided into, viz. 1. Royal Prussia, including Pomerellia, subject to the Swedes; ch. T. are Dantzick, (free) Marienburg and Culm. 2. Ducal Prussia, under the D. of Brandenburg; ch. T. Koningsberg, Elbing and Memel. Ch. T. of the whole is Dantzick.
			* 5. Province of Poland, part of old Germany, on the S. of Prussia, 320 m. l. & 270 br. divided into two parts, viz. 1. Great Poland, containing nine Palatinates, viz. Posna, Kalish, Wladislaw, Dobrzin, Plocksko, Brzestye or Cujavia, Rava, Lancicia, and Siradia; ch. T. the same. 2. Little Poland, containing three Palatinates, viz. Lublin, Sandomir and Cracow; ch. T. the same. Cracow is ch. T. of the whole.
			* 6. Dukedom of Massovia, or the Palatinate of Czersko, on the E. of Poland and S. of Prussia, some of it was part of the old Germany. It is 140 m. l. 114 br. ch. T. are Warsaw, Czersko and Blonicz.
			* 7. Polachia, on the E. of Massovia and W. of Lithuania, including the Palatinate of Bielskien, 135 m. l. & 48 br. ch. T. are Bielsko and Augustow.
			* 8. Polesia, or the Palatinate of Bresisi, on the E. of Polachia and S. W. of Lithuania, 240 m. l. & 86 br. ch. T. are Breste and Olewsko.
			* 9. Russia Rubra, on the S. W. of Polesia, 226 m. l. & 175. br. It contains three Palatinates, viz. 1. Chelm, ch. T. Chelm. 2. Belz, ch. T. Belz: And, 3. Lemburg, (in which is the Pro. of Pokatia, ch. T. Halicz) ch. T. Lemburg or Lwow, the ch. of the whole.
			* 10. Volhinia Superior, or the Palatinate of Luceoria, on the E. of Russia Rubra and S. of Polesia, 280 m. l. & 115 br. ch. T. are Lucko and Wlozimirz.
			* 11. Vkrane or Volhinia Inferior, or the Palatinate of Kiow, on the E. of Volhinia Superior, partly under Russia, 280 m. l. & 180 br. ch. T. are Kiow and Czirkassi. In this Province are the Cossacks in a manner free.
			* 12. Podolia, on the S. of both Volhinias, 350 m. l. & 112 br. containing, 1. The Higher, or the Pal. of Kaminieck; ch. T. Kaminieck and Bar. 2. The Lower, or the Pal. of Braclaw, ch. T. Braclaw and Brailaw: ch. T. of both is Kaminieck.

			Rivers of principal note are four, viz. 1. Nieper, 2. Wiessel, 3. Niester, and 4. Divina the less.

			Chief Mountains are those called the Carpethian Hills, dividing this Country from Turky in Europe.

			Chief Lakes are, 1. Beybas, 2. Briale, and 3. Goldo.

			Archbishopricks 4, Bishopricks 24, Universities 5.</blockquote>

	=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===		=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===

Admin at 02:12, 16 January 2025

2025-01-16T02:12:39Z

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	==History==		==History==
	==Geography==		==Geography==
			==Maps==
			<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150" showfilename="yes">
			File:1701 A system of geography by Herman Moll - Poland.jpg
			</gallery>
	==Demographics==		==Demographics==
	==Economy==		==Economy==

Admin at 02:41, 13 January 2025

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Admin at 21:11, 27 December 2024

2024-12-27T21:11:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:11, 27 December 2024
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	* 1. Dantzick, seated on the Vistula, at its influx into the Baltick Sea, and at the foot of a great Mountain, which hangs over it; it is the fairest, best, and of the greatest Trade of any in Prussia. Through this City runs a River very commodious to the Inhabitants, whereon are many Mills for the grinding of Corn, which is here found in great plenty; as also a Water-Mill, for the conveyance of water in Pipes to their Houses; and by reason of its great Trade for Corn with England and other parts, they have a great many Granaries or Store-houses for the same, which is hither brought them from Poland.		* 1. Dantzick, seated on the Vistula, at its influx into the Baltick Sea, and at the foot of a great Mountain, which hangs over it; it is the fairest, best, and of the greatest Trade of any in Prussia. Through this City runs a River very commodious to the Inhabitants, whereon are many Mills for the grinding of Corn, which is here found in great plenty; as also a Water-Mill, for the conveyance of water in Pipes to their Houses; and by reason of its great Trade for Corn with England and other parts, they have a great many Granaries or Store-houses for the same, which is hither brought them from Poland.
	* 2. Elbin, though but small, yet a fair City, and indifferently well frequented by the English Merchants.		* 2. [[Elbin]], though but small, yet a fair City, and indifferently well frequented by the English Merchants.
	* 3. Marienburg, the Seat of the Masters of the Dutch Knights;		* 3. Marienburg, the Seat of the Masters of the Dutch Knights;
	* 4. Culne, and		* 4. Culne, and

Admin at 01:02, 25 December 2024

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 * 2.69The Turks are possessed of Oczacou in the Lower Podolia, and on the Black Sea; likewise of Dassau in the Lower Volhynia, and on the Borstyhenes. The Swedes have likewise, within these few years, taken all Livonia; the Dutchy of Curland, wherein is the City of Mittau remaining only of that Province under the protection of the Crown of Poland; and moreover the Vayvode of Moldavia, and sometimes likewise he of Valachia renders some Duties to Poland. In Lithuania are divers Dukedoms, as of Slusk, Neswies, Birga, &c. whose Princes are powerful and have great Priviledges. The Dukedoms of Smolensko and Novogrodeck, which are of a great extent, and run all along the Coast of Lithuania, towards Moscovia, belong at present to the Crown of Poland, although part of Moscovy.
-The principal Rivers in Poland are the Vistula, the Niemen, the Dovine, the Neiper or Borysthenes, and the Neyster; most of which are very considerable for largeness, fairness, and swiftness of Stream.</blockquote><blockquote></blockquote>
+The principal Rivers in Poland are the Vistula, the Niemen, the Dovine, the Neiper or Borysthenes, and the Neyster; most of which are very considerable for largeness, fairness, and swiftness of Stream.</blockquote>
 === 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===

Admin at 06:07, 22 December 2024

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Admin: Created page with " ==Etymology and other names== ==History== ==Geography== ==Demographics== ==Economy== ==Culture== ==Government== ==Military== ==Education== ==Transportation== ==Notable People== ==Sources from old books== === 1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator. ===
POLAND was so called from the Planesse of the Country, which they themselves call Pole. It is a very great Country: on the North side it hath Borussia and Pomerania, on the East..."

2024-12-21T20:11:08Z

Created page with " ==Etymology and other names== ==History== ==Geography== ==Demographics== ==Economy== ==Culture== ==Government== ==Military== ==Education== ==Transportation== ==Notable People== ==Sources from old books== === 1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator. === <blockquote>POLAND was so called from the Planesse of the Country, which they themselves call Pole. It is a very great Country: on the North side it hath Borussia and Pomerania, on the East..."

New page

==Etymology and other names==
==History==
==Geography==
==Demographics==
==Economy==
==Culture==
==Government==
==Military==
==Education==
==Transportation==
==Notable People==
==Sources from old books==

=== 1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator. ===
<blockquote>POLAND was so called from the Planesse of the Country, which they themselves call Pole. It is a very great Country: on the North side it hath Borussia and Pomerania, on the East Massovia, and Lithuania; on the South it is enclosed with the Mountaines of Russia, and Hungaria: on the West it hath Lusatia, Silesia, and Moravia; it is 480. Miles long, and three hundred broade. The ayre of this Country is pure, but the Winters are cold and sharpe. All the Country is plaine, and yeeldeth good store of Barley, Wheate, and Pulse. It hath abundance of fruites, Waxe, Honey, and Butter. It hath also great store of Salt which is digged out of the earth. I and there are in these Mountaines Mines of Brasse, which the inhabitants call Tatri, and also Mines of Brimstone. It hath also great store of Cattell, so that Saxonie, and many Countries of Germanie, doe live by Poland Oxen. There is great variety of living creatures, and great store of cattell and wild beasts. It hath wild Oxen, Buffones, Bulls, and wild Horses, and Ounces, and the like. There are also great store of foule for Hawking. Poland was dignified with the title of a Kingdome, in the yeare 1001. in the raigne of Boleslaus Chabri, who received his royall Diadem from the Emperour Otto the third. But 77. yeares after, in the raigne of Boleslaus Audaci, or the bold, who cruelly murdered Stanislaus Bishop of Cracovia, the Pope devested it of that dignity, and tooke it away. And it was made a Kingdome againe in the yeare 1295. and Primislaus the second Duke of the greater Poland, and Pomerania was elected King. This Country is divided into the greater and lesser Poland. The greater is more Northward, and the River doth part it in the middle. The lesser is Southward, and the River Vistula runneth through it. In the greater Poland, the principall Cities are these. Posnania by the Rivers Varta, and Prosna, it is situate betweene the Hills, and walled with a double wall, it hath many faire tiled or slated houses: the Suburbs are large on the farther banke of the River Varta, & encompassed with a great Lake, and Marshes, it hath every yeare two famous Faires, and it is a Bishops seate. It hath these Townes under it Koscien among the Marshes, which is 7. Miles distant. Also Meidzyrzexze, in which the houses are built all of wood, and it is neere to Silesia and Pomerania. Also Ostresow, which is situate on a plaine betweene the Woods, and the Townes Wschow, Sremick, Prenez, and Rogozno. Calisia is a walled Citie, among the Marshes, the River Prosna runneth by it, and there are some ruines of a Castell. Vnder this Citie there are Gnesna, Pizary, Wartha, Noklo, Land, Konin, Slupeza, and Kolo. Gnesna is walled about, and seated on a Plaine, betweene Lakes and Hills. This Citie was first built by Lechus, in which Boleslaus Chabri Prince of Poland, received the Royall Diadem from the Emperour Otto the third, which the Kings of Poland doe still enjoy. Siradia is a Citie built of wood, walled about, and seated on a Plaine. Vnder it there are the Cities Vielunia, Sadeck, Petricovia, Rosprza, and Spicimiria. Petricovia is seated in a moorish ground. Lancisia is a pleasant Citie walled about, and seated on a plaine. Vnder it there are Orlovia, Piatec, Bresma, Kornazew, Biechow, and some other Townes. Cuiauia or Vladislauia is a faire Citie, and it hath under it Bistgostia by the navigable River Buda, by which commodities are transported out of Poland into Vistula. Brestia hath under it Radziciow, Crusphicia, and Cowalow. Crusphisia is the chiefe Citie of all Poland next to Gnes•a, it is built of wood, with a brick Castell, and it is seated by the Lake Goplo, out of which Lake Mice heretofore came forth, who by the just judgement of God did devoure Pompil•us Prince of Poland in that Castle. Raua is a woodden Citie by the River Raua, it hath under it these Townes Sochaczouia, Gostinin, and Gamh••. Ploozko is a pleasant Cittie seated on a Hill by the River Vistula, it is a Bishops seate: under it there are Bielsko, Raczyayaz, Steperoz, Stre•sko, Mlawa, Plonsko, and Radzanow. Dobrinta is situated on a rock by the River Vistula, it had a Castle which the Crucigerans did demolish. Vnder it there are 〈◊〉▪ Ripin, and Gorzno. In the lesser Poland there are these Principall Cit•ties, Cracovia, Sandomiria, and Lublinum. Cracovia is built on a Plaine by the River Vistula, (Peter Appiarus supposeth it to be the same, which Ptolomy calls Carrodunum) being walled with a double wall. It hath a Castle on a high rock, which they call Vanel. In this Citty the King, of Poland keepe their residence, and are buryed. It hath also a Vniversity famous for study and Arts. But the Cracovians, have no chiefe Advocate, so that the King himselfe is the Praetor of Cracovia. There are three Cities neere unto Cracovia, Clepardia, Stradonia, and Casimiria. It hath two Dukedomes under it, Biecz, Wonincz, Sandecz, Lelow, K•yaz, and Proszovice. Sandomirta is a principall Cittie, walled about, being situated on a Hill by the River Vistula, 22. Miles distant from Cracovia. It hath an ancient Castle, well fortified. Vnder which is Che•••y seated on a Plaine, and famous for Mines of Blew, in which there is also some silver found, also Korzin, Wislicia, Pilzno, Opoczno, Radomia, P••onieck, Zannichost, Zarnow, and Mologost. Lublinum is a chiefe Citty. well-fortified with a wall and a Castle. In which there are yearely three Faires, to which both Turkes, Armenians, Graecians, Germanes, Moschovites, Lithuanians, and others doe resort, the River B•sterra doth runne by the Castle. Vnder it there are Vrzendow, Lulow, Parc••, and Casimiria. Moreover the Kingdome of Poland hath many Lakes, in which there are all sorts of Fish. It is watered also with many faire Rivers, the chiefe whereof is Vandalus or Vistula, which the Germanes call De Wixel. The next are Chronus, now called Pregell, Nyennien, Ruhon, Viadrus, Varta, Tyras now called Nyester, Hypanis, now Bugh, Borysthenes, now Nyeper, there are also many other small Rivers. There are almost no Mountaines, except Southward, where it is parted from Hu•gary by the Sarmatian, and Carpathian Mountaines which the inhabitants call Taury. The Country is full of woods, which are parts of the wood Hercinia. But so much hitherto. The Politick state of the Kingdome of Poland hath 2. Members. The first are the Clergie, in which are the two Archbishopricks of Gnesna and Leopolis. The Bishops of Cracovia, of Ploczko, of Chelma, Vladislavia, Pomesania, Varmia, Culma, and Sambiensis, Posnonia. Proemislia, Cavenez, Vilna, Medinc{que} Luceoria. In Livonia the Bishops of Riga, Dirpta, Absel, and Revalia. Secondly the Nobles, in which there are Castellanus Cracowvia: the Palatine of Cracovia, Posnania, Sandomiria, Kalischy, Siradia, Lancisa, Brezeste, Inowladislavia, Russia, Podalia, Lublin, Belze, Plocense, Mozavia, Rava. Also in Lithuania the Palatines of Vilna, of Trochy Poletsho, Novogrod, and Vitellia. Also in Prussia, the Palitnes of Culma, Marienbourg, & Pomerania▪ The Counts are of P•snania, Sand miria, Kalische, Voinice, Gnesne, Siradi•, Lancise, Brizeste, Inowladeslavia, Leopolis, Camenezia, Lublin, Belze, Plocense, Geine, Ravense, Sandecia, Myedzeris, Vis•icie, Biece, Rogostia, Radom, Zawichost, Land•nse, Streme, Zarnowe, Mologost, Vi•lune, Premis•ia, Haine, Sa••e, Chelme, Dobrine, Polane•ce, Premetense, Criswinense, Czecovia, Nacle, Rospirie, Byechov•a, Bydgostia, Brezezine, Crininice, Osvecimense, Camenetz, Spicimirie, Inowlodense, Revalia, Zavoloo, Sachazonia, Vasovia, Gostine, Visne, Raciez, Sieprecense, Wisogrod, Riprin, Zabrochzinense, Circhanouia, Livense. In Lithuania there are old Palatines of Vilna, and Trochi. In Prussia of Culma, Elbingen, and Pomerania. There are many Captaines in the Kingdome of Poland. And two Mars-halls, of the Kingdome and the Court. The Ecclesiastick doth consist of these Archbishops & Bishops aforesaid. The Noble men are very sharpe witted, and they doe travell into forraigne Countries to get knowledge, and languages. They are couragious, and doe not feare the stoutest Enemie, and if the Nobles doe wrong them, all their kinsfolkes and friends doe joyne with them to revenge it, and doe never cease untill they have revengd it or lost their owne lives. Lastly they are not so liberal as Prodigall, both in Banqueting, and imoderate guifts, and also in keeping a great retinew or number of Servants, whom they cloth and feede.</blockquote><blockquote>SILESIA. (Book Silesia)

ANd so much concerning the Kingdome of Poland, Silesia remaineth which I will briefely unfold. It was so called from a River of the same name, as Conradus Celtes witnesseth. Others have other derivations. It is bounderd on the North and East with Polonia: on the South with Moravia, and the Wood Hercynia, on the West with part of Lusitia and Bohemia. It is 200. Mile long and 80. broade. Though the ayre be somewhat cold, yet it is milde and gentle. The Country in regard it is watered with many Brookes and Rivers is very fruitfull in most places, and it hath in some parts Veines of Gold, Silver, Lead, and Iron▪ it yeeldeth also clothing for it selfe, and many other Countries beside. The Citties are well inhabited and adorned with Lawes, and good Arts. The Metropolis thereof is Vratislavia, some would have it to be that which Ptolomie cals Budorchis, it is comonly call'd Breslaw. Duglossus writeth that it was built by Mieslaus Duke of Polonia, a little before the yeere of Christ, 1000. And 40. yeeres afterward it was adorned with a Bishoprick by Casimirus King of Poland, and it encreased so much, that the Bishops of this Citty were called the golden Bishops, in regard of their wealth and riches. In the yeere 1341. it was burnt downe. But the Emperour Charles the third made it in stead of Brick, of Gold. On the Steeple of St. Elizabeths Church there is this Inscription. Mirabilis in altis Dominus. The Situation, the beauty of the Houses, Towers, and Churches, the faire Bridges, and large Streets, doe much set forth this Citty. Nissa is an Episcopall Citty. There are besides in this Country 15. Dukes, Lignicensis, Bregensis, Teschinensis, Monsterbergensis, Olsvicensis, and Beoustadiensis, and three ancient Families, namely, Ligvicensis, Teschinensis, and Monsterbergensis. Tropaviensis, Opeliensis, Nissensis, Vratislavensis, or Breslauw, Swidnisensis, Hurensis, Glagoviensis, Ratibonensis, and Sagonensis. But these latter honours the Kings of Bohemia since the decease of their Lords have gotten. There are three Baronyes, namely, of Trachenberg, of Vertenberg, and Plessensis. The Kings high Court in Silesia is kept at Vratislavia, where there is a Bishops seate, as also at Kissa. Viadrus runneth thorow this Country, into which many Rivers and Streames doe flow, as Elsa, Ola, Bobrus, Barusins, and others.

POLAND which is situate in the Europian Sarmatia is both long and wide, and doth take up a great part of it, it was so called from the Fields and plaine ground, for Pole signifies as much as Plaine: it is a very great Country, having on the North Borussia and Pomerania: on the East Massovia, and Lithuania; on the South Russia, and the Mountaines of Hungaria: on the West Lusatia, Silesia, and Moravia. It is devided into the greater and lesser Poland. The greater is more Northward, and the River Varta runneth thorow the middle of it. The lesser is Southward, and the River Vistula glideth thorow it. The Polanders are descended from the Sclavonians, as Neugebaverus witnesseth. Lib. Rer. Polonicar. and their Kingdome was never so large as it is now, because the great Dukedome of Lituania & Livonia are joyned unto it, albeit the King of Swethland hath lately gotten a great part of these Provinces. It reacheth from the River Notes & Obrá, which doe devide it from Marchia, and from the River Odera, which doth part it from Silesia, even to Beresaia, and Borysthenes, which seperateth it from Moscovia, and so it extendeth West and East 120. Germane miles, and as much from the farthest part of Livonia, to the confines of Hungarie. And so being of a round forme, it is very wide and capacious. There are in the greater Poland these principall Citties, Posnavia, built by the Rivers Varta and Prosna betweene the Hills, with a double wall, it hath faire slated Houses, and great Suburbs by the farther banke of the River Varta, being encompassed with a great Lake and Marshes, and having two famous Faires every yeere, it is a Bishops seate, and hath many Townes under it. Calisia is a walled Citty among the Marshes, by which the River Prosna runneth. It had sometime a strong well fortified Castle, as the ruines doe testifie, there are other Townes also subject unto it. Gnesna is walled about, being situate in a Plaine betweene Lakes and Hills, and it is an Archbishops seate. This Citty was first built by Lechus, in which Boleslaus Chabri Prince of Polonia received the royall Diadem from the Emperor Otto the III. when before that time Poland was onely a Dukedome. Siradia is a woodden Citty, walled and seated on a Plaine, it hath a strong Castle by the River Varta. This Citty was honoured with the title of a Dukedome, which dignity belonged to the Kings second Sonne. It hath also many Townes under it, among which is Petricovia, which was heretofore of great note, where the Sessions for the whole Kingdome were wont to bee held, which are now translated to Warsavia. Lancicia is a pleasant Citty, seated on a Plaine, and walled about, having a walled Castle on a Rocke, by which the River Bísura glideth. Cujavia, or Vladislavia, is a faire Citty, being a Bishops seate; Bidgostia is subject unto it, which is seated by the navigable River Buda. Brestia hath under it Radzieiow, Crusphicia, and Cowalow. Crusphicia is the chiefe Citty of Poland next to Gnesna, it is built of wood with a slated Castle by the Lake Golpo. Rava is a wodden Citty situate by a River of the same name. Ploczko is a pleasant Citty seated on a Hill by the River Vistula, in which there was a Castle which the Crucigerians did demolish. In the lesser Polonia, the chiefe Citties are these, Cracovia, Sandomiria, and Lublinum. Cracovia is built on a Plaine neere the River Vistula, being fortified with a double wall and a deep ditch. It hath a Castle on a high Rock• which they call Vanel, in this Citty the Kings of Poland keepe their residence and are buried. It hath a famous Schoole for the study of Philosophie. The Castellanus of Cracovia taketh place of the Palatine in the Senate, but in other Provinces the Palatine is preferd before the Castellanus. Moreover, there are three Citties neere unto Cracovia, Clepardia, Stradomia, and Cassimiria. It hath two Dukedomes under it Zarocensis, and Oswiecimensis. It hath many Townes under it. Sandomiria is a principall Citty, walled about and situate on a Hill by the River Vistula, being 22. miles distant from Cracovia. It hath an ancient Castle well fortified, under it there are Checiny in a Plaine, which is famous for Mines of Blue, in which there is Silver also found, also Korezin, Malogast, and other Townes. Lublinum is a Citty beyond Vistula, being fortified with a Wall, a Ditch, a Lake, and a Castle. In which there are 3. Faires every yeere, unto which both Turkes, Armenians, Grecians, Germanes, Muscovites, and Lithuavians doe resort. The Iewes doe ininhabite a great part of the Suburbs, and have a Sinagogue there. The River Bystizna doth runne by the Castle Poland as we said before is a plaine Country, the most part of it is coverd with Woods, and it yeeldeth good store of Barley, Wheate, and Pulse. It hath abundance of Cattle. It hath Lakes which are full of all kindes of Fish. The chiefe Rivers are Vistula, Viadrus, commonly called Odera, Tyres, now Niester, Hypanis, which is called Bugh. Vistula, now called die Weixel, was heretofore called Vandalus, some call it Issula, and Vissula. This River riseth in the Carpathian Mountaines, and before it commeth to Cracovia it is enlarged by the receit of many Rivers, and afterward being growne very deepe and broad before it come to Dantiscum, it dischargeth it selfe into the Codan Bay. Boristhenes so well knowne of old, is now called Nieper. It hath a few Mountaines, and those Southward where it looketh toward Hungaria. The State of the Kingdome consisteth of the Clergie and Nobles. The Ecclesiastick Order hath two Bishops, the Bishop of Ghesnia who is Primate of the Kingdome, who doth also crowne the King, and the Bishop of Leopolis in blacke Russia. The Bishops are of Cracovia in lesser Poland, the Bishop of Posnia in the greater Poland, and in other Provinces the Bishops Plocensis, Chelmensis Vilnensis, Kioviensis, Lucensis, Ianoucensis, Samogitiensis, Warmensis, Culmensis, Sambiensis, Pomasaniensis, Rigensis, and others. The Politick order of the Nobles hath 26. Palatines, 60. Counts, 4. Marshals, a Chancellor, and a Vicechancellor, two Generals or Captaines: in the lesser Poland there are forty common Captaines, in the greater 30. in Massovia 12. So that the Kings when occasion requires, can raise 200000. Nobles. He that desires to know more concerning the state of this Kingdome, let him have recourse to Stanislaus Kizistanowie his description of the State of the Kingdome of Poland: or to Guagninus or Boterus their description of Germany, and Neugebaverus his Polonian History. There are also in Poland Mines of Salt by Bochnia and Veliscus, which doe exceed all others. Veliscum is 8. miles distant from Cracovia. Bochina is a faire Towne with a Castle, where the Governour of rhe Saltpits dwels, who is called Zupparius. The Country round about is barren, but this Country maketh a greater revenue out of these Mines, then some Countries doe out of Gold and Silver Mines. The people of Poland, especially the Nobles, doe now differ much from the Scythian barbarisme of the ancient Sarmatians. They have no Robberies, so that in Summer time they ride in Waggons, and in Winter time in Coaches, safely, and without danger. Most of the Nobility are very sharpe witted, and doe get experience and languages by travelling into forraine Countries. They are couragious, and will not shun the stoutest enemy: if any one bee wronged by the Nobles, all their kindred and friends doe joyne together in revenging it, and doe never cease untill they have revenged it, or lost their owne lives. Lastly, they are not so liberall as prodigall, both in their frequent Banquets, and in the great retinue and number of Servants which they keepe and clothe.</blockquote>

=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXII. Of Polonia, and the Trade thereof. ===
<blockquote>* 1.1POland is limited on the East with Boristhenes, which parteth it from Germany, on the West with Vistula, which parteth it from Germany, on the North with the Baltick Sea, and Sinus Frinicus, on the South with Hungary.

* 1.2The chief Merchandize that this Country affordeth for Transportation, is Barly, Oats, Anber, Wax, Honey, Hemp, Pitch, Yar, Rosin, and some Cordage, with other Commodities.

* 1.3The chief Rivers are, first Vistula, navigable 400 miles, and endeth in the Baltick Sea, Niger, Reuben, Bog, Mimel, and others. The Provinces are accounted to be 11, and the principal Towns are as followeth.

* 1.4Luconia is the first, in length 500 miles, in breadth 160; where are Riga an Archbishoprick, Derpt a Town of great Commerce, Ruialia and Narve two strong Towns.

* 1.5Lituania is the second, abounding with Beasts, which yield the Inhabitants Furs for Commodities; the chief Cities are Vilna, Vilcomire and Brescia.

* 1.6Volinia is the third, wherein are found Kiovia and Circassia.

* 1.7Samogitia is the fourth, the chief Town is Camia.

* 1.8Podolia is the fifth, affording three Harvests of one Sowing; the chief City is Camiense, held invincible, seated on high Rocks, Orkacow, Wincecsa, and others.

* 1.9Russia Nigra is the sixth, wherein are found Leinburg, Grodeck, &c.

* 1.10Prussia or Spruce is the seventh, wherin upon the Sea-coast is Amber found; the chief Cities are Dantzick, a famous Mart, especially for all sorts of Grain, 1000 Measures whereof being here daily sold. 2. Regiomount or Conisberg, a famous University. 3. Heilsperg. 4. Manberg. 5. Angenberg. 6. Culne, and others.

* 1.11Podlasia is the eighth, wherein are Ticocksin, where the Royal Treasury is kept, Biesco, Knisen, and others.

* 1.12Masovia is the ninth, the prime City being Marksow.

* 1.13Poland is the tenth, wherein is the Metropolis of Polonia which is Cracovia, seated pleasantly on the River Vistula; here are also the Cities of Lublins, Guisna, Siradia and others; and of the principal of these, or others seated in this Tract, as followeth.</blockquote>

=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXIII. Of Cracovia, and the Trade thereof. ===
<blockquote>* 1.1CRacovia is the chief, and Metropolis of all the Kingdom of Poland, where the King and his Council have their continual Residence; it is seated in a Plain, having Mountains on all sides, but somewhat distant; it is compassed with two strong Walls of Stone, and a dry Ditch; the Building is very fair, of Free-stone, 4 stories high, but covered with Tiles of Wood or Shingles, it is of round Form, in the midst whereof stands a large quadrangular Marketplace, wherein is seated the Cathedral Church, and the Senate house for the City, about which are many Shops for Merchants: upon the East-side of the City is the King's Castle, fair and well built on a Hill, lying open on the South-side, without any Building above the Wall; on the East side are the King's and Queen's Lodgings, on the North-side Lodgings for Feasting, on the West a Chappel where the Kings are interred: it hath not received any great Fame for Merchandising, many Scotch-men have attained to some Estate here by Trading, but it may more properly be called Pedlarising than Merchandising, for they have a moveable Magazine which they transport by Horse from Town to Town, wherein their Commodities are inclosed; and not a few such are found to have begun this Traffick at first by their Backs, and afterwards by Horses.

Their Coins current with their Weights and Measures I shall here insert.

* 1.2It is not above 300 years since the Polonians used Silver Coins stampt; for before that time they did traffick with little pieces of uncoined Silver, and by the Exchange of Skins, and other such Commodities; but at this day they make all Contracts by Silver Guildens, but have no such real Coin amongst them: the Coins current are these, a Gold Ducat, known by the name of Polander, is of the same value with the Hungarian Ducat, and worth 70 Polish Groshe; a Silver Guilden or Florin is worth 30 Polish Groshe, which is 2 s. sterling; a Dollar in specie is worth 40 Polish Groshe; but in all Contracts for buying and felling, the Dollar is accounted 36 Grosh; a Creitzer is worth 3 Potchanels; 18 Deniers make 1 Grosh; a Grosh of Poland or Bobenia, is worth 7 Potchanels; 16 Whites make 1 Ort, 4 Orts make a Dollar, valued at 4 s. 4 d. sterling.

* 1.3The common Weight of Cracovia is the Pound, 136 l. whereof is here acounted a Quintar, which makes in London 114 l. circa, and the 100 l. of London hath yielded here about 120 l. but the common Pound is reduced to a Stone, and to a Ship Pound, which is 10 of the said St•…es.

* 1.4The common Measure of Length is an Ell, which is ½ an English Ell, but they sell their Linen by Shocks, which produceth 57½ Ells English the Shock.</blockquote>

=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXXXIII. Of the Trade in general of Poland and Eastland. ===
<blockquote>* 1.1HAving thus surveyed the Trade of this Country in some particulars, it will not be amise to look upon it in the general. The Revenues both of the King and Gentlemen is here esteemed but moderate, and scarce sufficient to maintain a plentiful Table, and to exchange with Merchants for Wines and Spices, which they yet much covet, as also they do forein Stuffs of Silks and Cloth: I have noted, that this Kingdom aboundeth with Beasts as well wild as tame, and yieldeth excellent Horses, not great but quick, nimble and stirring; it aboundeth also in Flesh, Fowl, and Water-Fish, and in all kind of Pulse and Grain; it is found also towards the Carpathian Mountains of Hungary to have some Mines of Gold and Silver, of Iron and Brimstone; it yieldeth also in abundance plenty of Honey found in hollow Trees, besides the Husband-man's Hives: it yieldeth moreover, Wax, Flax, and Linen Cloths made thereof, Hemp, Pitch of both kinds, Masts for Ships, Boards and Timber, rich Furs, Salt digged out of the Earth, Amber, Soap-ashes, and Rice in abundance, which hath made Dantzick famous throughout Europe. No marvel then if Merchants bring unto them Silks from Italy, Cloth from England, Wines from France and Spain, and the very Spices and Drugs from India, since they not only sell then at good prices, but also bring thence such precious and staple Commodities. Poland it self is found within land, and Prussia with their immunities subject to this Kingdom, is sound to have the principal Traders therein inhabiting, yet have they but few Ships, using Strangers to export their Commodities. For the rest of the Polanders they are observed to live content with their own, and not by way of Merchandizing to stir much abroad; yet are they not rich, because they want the abovesaid Commodities, which the proud Gentlemen and Nobility of these Countries buy dear, and will have, though brought from far unto them, and they are noted to have so little Gold and Silver, as despising all in respect of it; they sell the rich Commodities of their Country at a low rate, especially those which are for daily Food, and thereby made unfit to be exported. The People themselves are not much addicted to Traffick into remote Regions, nor to travel far out of their own Countries; yet in imitation of other their Neighbours, they sometimes Trade with their rich Furs into other Countries, of whom I have observed some to come to Constantinople, rather making a ranging Voyage, than coming with intent to Trade and Reside. Wherein they cannot be much blamed, in regard that they have in plenty all things that naturally are wanting to mankind, if they can be contented therewith: but the Inhabitants of Pomerland, East Country, &c. are observed to be more ingenious, and far more addict to Traffick and Commerce, and have some Vessels sitter for transport and carriage than for warfare, but yet most proper for their gross Commodities and large Stowage, however their Winter-colds depriving them of almost half the years Traffick: the other half wherein their Seas are navigable, cannot make them any competent amends, and their Merchandize being altogether gross, cannot give them therefore the attribute of Eminent Merchants.</blockquote>