Polish rulers have played a significant role in the history of Poland, shaping its political landscape and cultural identity. The monarchy in Poland began in the 10th century with the establishment of the Piast dynasty, which included notable figures like Mieszko I and Bolesław I. Over the centuries, various dynasties, including the Jagiellonian dynasty, contributed to the country's development and expansion. The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, formed in 1569, was a notable period when rulers governed a vast territory, promoting a unique blend of cultures. The last king, Stanisław II August, ruled until the partitions of Poland in the late 18th century, which led to the country's disappearance from the map for over a century.