Volyn nobility at Wilno sejm in 1566: ancient problems and attempts to solve them (based on the 39th book materials of the Lithuanian Metric records)

Abstract

Th e purpose of the article is the analysis of a separate document from the 39th Book of Records of the Lithuanian Metricа, which concerns the participation of Volyn nobi- lity delegation at the session of Wilno Sejm (Sejm Wileński) in January 1566. Th e methodo- logical foundations of the research are based on the fundamental dogmas of historicism and objecti vity. At the same time, the principle of systematicity was used for a comprehensive study of the document content. Analytical and synthesizing methods were used to generalize the obtained information. Th e scientifi c novelty consists in conducting analytical work with the content of the presented document and its corresponding publication at the end of the article. Conclusions. A delegation from Volyn nobility arrived at Wilno Sejm which had been held early in 1566. Th e ambassadors had the authority to inform the Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund II Augustus about various problems in the region and to obtain appropriate solutions to them. Actually, it was structured like this: fi rst the message of the ambassadors, and then the resolution of the ruler. Th e total of 14 positions ("prozb") were presented. Currently, the principle of distri- bution of these “prozb” remains unknown from the document: arbitrary or regular. In terms of content we can establish that the raised issues were related to: military service, payment of cer- tain taxes and implementation of duties, administrative positions, criminal off enses and the stay of military mercenaries in Volyn. Th e analyzed document vividly illustrates one of the aspects of the General Sejm (Sejm Walny) functioning and its competence. Sigismund II August did not ignore any of Volyn ambassadors’ "prozb". However not all of them received an immediate solution. Th e ruler took the opposite position on some issues as for example in the case of Lutsk monitor position in the Council of Lords: Sigismund II August categorically refused to renew the historical antiquity to which the plenipotentiary ambassadors appealed.