Authors

Discussion

The Polish-Teutonic Wars (1454-1466 and 1519-1521) had a transformative impact on the economic fabric of northern Poland, particularly influencing trade dynamics in the Mazovian region. This paper investigates the consequences of these conflicts on commerce in Mazovia, drawing on a rich array of historical sources from Gdańsk, Toruń, Płock and Warsaw. By analyzing merchant logs and municipal archives, this study aims to uncover how these wars reshaped trade networks and commercial practices in the region.

The analysis reveals that the wars disrupted established trade routes and prompted significant shifts in economic activities across Mazovia. Initially, Gdańsk emerged as a vital port for Polish exports, benefiting from its strategic location on the Baltic Sea. However, as hostilities escalated, the stability of maritime commerce fluctuated, leading to increased competition among regional hubs like Płock and Toruń. 

Moreover, the paper explores the broader implications of the wars on trade regulations and merchant activities. The shifting control of the Vistula River, once dominated by the Teutonic Order, became a focal point for Polish economic policy, affecting the movement of goods and the flow of commerce. Merchants from Mazovia found themselves in a complex landscape of competition and collaboration.

This research underscores the notion that the Polish-Teutonic Wars were not merely military confrontations but pivotal events that have significant economic impact on Mazovia. By examining the interplay between conflict and commerce, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between political dynamics and economic resilience in the region.

The findings illuminate how Mazovian merchants adapted to the disruptions of war, reflecting a broader narrative of economic agency and innovation. This exploration fills a notable gap in the historiography of the period, emphasizing the interconnectedness of war and trade while offering insights into the lasting impacts of these conflicts on urban development and regional commerce in the XV and XVI centuries.