Leszek the White

Leszek the White (c. 1186-1227), the prince of Sandomierz, and the son of Casimir the Just. After his father's death, Leszek claimed the senior province of Cracow, having as his main rival at first Mieszko the Old, Casimir's brother. He eventually ascended the throne in 1202. He made efforts to capture Halich Rus, also claimed by Hungary, but failed. He died in tragic circumstances at Gasawa in Pomerania, where he held a meeting with Ladislaus Spindleshanks and Henry the Bearded, when they were unexpectedly attacked by Swietopelk, prince of Gdansk Pomerania. [art]