Augustus III of Poland

Augustus III (Polish: August III Sas) (1696-1763), the King of Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (1734-1763), and also elector of Saxony (1733-1763, as Friedrich August II)

Biography

Friedrich August II Wettin was born in Dresden in 1696 as son of August II the Strong, Imperial Prince-Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. He was being prepared by his family for the royal function. In 1721 he converted to Catholicism.

Related Topics:
Wettin - Dresden - 1696 - August II the Strong - Prince-Elector - Saxony - King of Poland - 1721 - Catholicism

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After his father's death he inherited Saxony and was elected king of Poland with support of Russian and Austrian troops. August II was disinterested in the affairs of his Polish dominion, which he viewed mostly as a source of funds and resources for strenghtening his power in Saxony. During his 30 year-reign, he would spend less than 3 years in Poland. He delegated most of his powers and responsibilities to count Heinrich Bruhl, who became a semi-dictator of Poland. 30 years of August II disinterested reign festered the political anarchy and further weakened the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, while neigbouring Prussia, Austria and Russia finalised plans for the partitions of Poland.

Related Topics:
King of Poland - Russian - Austrian - Heinrich Bruhl - Dictator - Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth - Prussia - Austria - Russia - Partitions of Poland

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