The administrative structure of Silesia as a determinant of legal and constitutional cohesion (12th–15th century) (original) (raw)

An analysis of crucial legal and systemic issues indicates that the most important aspect in the formation of Silesian regional cohesion was the ‘transformation’ that took place in the 13th century, including the reception of German law and the institution of the self-governing municipality. The main factor determining the functionality of administrative and judicial structures was the proceeding territorial fragmentation. In the 12th century the provincial comites, appointed by the principes, as well as the Bishops of Wrocław, performed the function of intermediaries between Silesia and the rest of the monarchy. After 1163, the Silesian dukes concentrated on the particular needs of their territorial dominions that were taking shape, and were sometimes also used as power bases for carrying out statewide political concepts. Hence the initiatives undertaken for the purpose of consolidating the duchies in their administrative and economic dimensions, utilizing innovative socio-systemic...