senioriate system

inheritance

Learn about this topic in these articles:

use by Bolesław III

  • In Bolesław III

    The senioriate system, a halfway measure between primogeniture and equal distribution among all male heirs, was devised to satisfy all princely heirs; yet it caused dissension and eventually led to the disintegration of the state.

    Read More
  • Poland
    In Poland: Collapse of Bolesław’s governing system

    …his testament of 1138 a system meant to ensure greater stability. He divided the state among his sons; the oldest became the senior duke, whose domain included the capital in Kraków and who had general powers over military, foreign, and ecclesiastical matters. By the early 13th century, however, the efforts…

    Read More
Britannica Chatbot logo

Britannica Chatbot

Chatbot answers are created from Britannica articles using AI. This is a beta feature. AI answers may contain errors. Please verify important information using Britannica articles. About Britannica AI.