About
Remembered for ruling during a stable period in the history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, this seventeenth-century regent served from 1674 until 1696 as both Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland. A popular military leader in several battles against the Ottoman Empire, he earned the nickname of the "Lion of Lechistan."
Before Fame
He was born in Olesko, Poland (present-day Ukraine) to noble parents Jakub Sobieski and Zofia Teofillia Danilowicz. He graduated from Jagiellonian University in the mid-1640s.
Trivia
He is perhaps most famous for his 1683 Battle of Vienna victory.
Family Life
His marriage to Marie Casimire Louise de La Grange d'Arquien resulted in nine children.
Associated With
He was a contemporary of English King James II.
