A Contribution to Pre-Polish Antiquity

Abstract

In many issues, a scientific discussion about the beginnings of Slavicism (Pol. Słowiańszczyzna) raises doubts and controversy. This essay is not a contribution about another excavation, but rather a statement at a higher level of generality - an attempt at a kind of synthesizing approach on the basis of logical deduction. The author stands on the side of supporters of the indigenous theory of the origin of the Slavs, which he argues by citing several logical justifications. The considerations concern a fairly wide range - from the Lusatian culture in the 8th century BC, when Scythian statehood dominated in its neighbourhood, to the 15th century and the great victory of the Kingdom of Poland in alliance with the Grand Duchy of Lithuania over the state of the Teutonic Order. The mainstream consideration, however, concerns the war tradition of the early Slavs and the first Piasts. The emphasis is also on the specificity of the martial art of Lechites and Poles, compared to the traditions of neighbouring peoples.