PRUSSIAN NOBLES ON THE SERVICE OF THEUTONIC ORDER IN XIII - XIV CENTURIES

Abstract

The article studies Prussian nobility, who supported Theutonic order in its conquest of Prussia in XIII-XIV centuries. The main goal of the study is to describe the state of nobility on the ground of their composition and property. To reach the goal a list of Prussian noblemen, which was missing in historiography, was made. The list was compiled with the use of prosopographical analysis, comparative-historical and typological methods. On the ground of vast material of acts, chronicles and historical works of XIII-XVI centuries the differentiation of Prussian noblemen was made; its duties in relation to Order were determined. Following the findings it can be claimed, that Prussian nobility consisted of three groups (large, middle and small landowners), which differed by size of estates and duties (military service, taxes, building of fortification). Under the conditions of permanents militaries campaigns, the military service took the first place. Knowledge about locality and the ties with local tribes preconditioned a variety of nobility's military functions. They were involved in campaigns as advisers, guides and scouts. Noblemen also raided on neighboring lands and commanded garrisons of castles. All of that attested to their large importance for the policy of Order in Prussia. small landowners), which differed by size of estates and duties (military service, taxes, building of fortification). Under the conditions of permanents militaries campaigns, the military service took the first place. Knowledge about locality and the ties with local tribes preconditioned a variety of nobility's military functions. They were involved in campaigns as advisers, guides and scouts. Noblemen also raided on neighboring lands and commanded garrisons of castles. All of that attested to their large importance for the policy of Order in Prussia.