Hello and welcome to the history of the Germans, Episode 96, Meet the Neighbors.

Now this week we're still getting our bearings.

Last week we saw the emergence of the Stem Duchy of Saxony and the Eastern Marches.

Now this week we take a look at the major neighbors, the Bohemians, the Poles and the Danes.

It's right around this time in the middle of the 10th century that these political entities form.

As always, none of this happens smoothly, so expect all sorts of battles and betrayals, including a legion of thieves.

But before we start, just a legion of thieves.

But before we start, just a reminder, the History of the Germans podcast is advertising

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Last week we explored the destiny of the Saxons since Charlemagne first invaded in 772,

and we ended with the death of Otto I in 973 when the duchy seemed well set up.

The original territory between the Rhine and the Elbe River was now well settled.

Cities had emerged around the seats of bishops or the castles of important noblemen.

A new military system had been established that relied heavily on armored men on horseback,

...