The Kingdom of Poland was a historical state in Central Europe that existed from 1025 until 1795. It was established when Bolesław I Chrobry became the first king. The kingdom played a significant role in European politics and culture, especially during the Middle Ages, when it expanded its territory and influence. In 1569, the Union of Lublin united the Kingdom of Poland with the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, forming the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. This union created one of the largest and most populous countries in Europe at the time. However, the Commonwealth eventually faced internal conflicts and external pressures, leading to its partitions by neighboring powers in the late 18th century.