King Jan III Sobieski (1629 - 1696) is still regarded as the last great King of Poland, revered today in part because his fearless, indomitable spirit represents what has always been such an inseparable part of the Polish national character.A man of intellect, he had an uncommon knowledge of foreign culture that would impress even a geek with a broadband connection. A true Renaissance man, Sobieski's passion and warmth were revealed in the hundreds of letters exchanged with his wife, Marysienka.
His lack of royal blood didn't prevent him from earning the admiration and respect of both his countrymen and enemies - his people elected him King, and his opponents referred to him as "The Lion of Poland." And at a time when it seemed certain that the invading Ottoman Empire would conquer all of Europe, he gathered and led an army to defeat a force nearly double in size at the Battle of Vienna. This earned him the moniker, "The Savior of Western Civilization."
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