The Radvila family is one of the most influential families in the history of Lithuania. Mikalojus Radvila was the Chancellor of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Vilnius Province Governor and Vice-regent of Livonia, and an ardent fighter against the Lublin Union. Many considered him the actual uncrowned King of Lithuania.

His reign marked both the greatest territorial expansion of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the defeat of the Teutonic Knights in the Battle of Grunwald in 1410. He is revered as a national hero and was an important figure in Lithuania’s national rebirth in the 19^th century.

Son of Gediminas, acquired influence and territory at the expense of Muscovy and the Golden Horde, and extended the borders of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania to the northern shore of the Black Sea.

He was the Duke of Trakai and governed the Grand Duchy of Lithuania together with his brother, Algirdas. He ruled over the and Ruthenians.

Founded the political entity of Lithuania, and expanded its territory from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. Also seen as one of the most significant individuals in early Lithuanian history, he was responsible for both erecting the capital of Lithuania, and the establishment of a dynasty that can be traced to other European monarchies such as Poland, Hungary, and Bohemia.

The first, and only King of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. He united Baltic tribes and created the Lithuanian state. He is also now credited with stopping Lithuanians the advance of the Tartars towards the Baltic Sea.

LIONS OF LITHUANIA

These “Lions of Lithuania” breathed life into a nation, and through their leadership in the arts, sciences, and world affairs, shaped it into a force that allows us, today, to share the pride of our Lithuanian heritage with the rest of the world.

To be sure, there are many more that may deserve this distinction. We ask our readers and supporters to suggest and submit individuals who would be worthy of inclusion in the “Lions of Lithuania.”

Simonas Daukantas (1793-1864)

Vincas Kudirka (1858-1899)

Jonas Basanavicius (1851-1927)

Vilius “Vydunas” (1868-1953)

Antanas Baranauskas (1835-1902)

Mikalojus K. Ciurlionis Storostas (1875-1911)

Motiejus Valancius (1801-1875)

Gaon of Vilnius Eligahu ben Solomon Zalman (1720-1797)

Laurynas Gucevicius (1753-1798)

Mikalojus Radvila The Black (1515-1565)

Grand Duke Vytautas The Great (1350-1430)

Grand Duke Algirdas (1296-1377)

Grand Duke Kestutis (1297-1382)

Grand Duke Gediminas (1275-1341)

Mindaugas (1200-1263)