Why was the Battle of Grunwald in 1410 important for Lithuania?

The Battle of Grunwald, fought on July 15, 1410, was a pivotal event for Lithuania for several key reasons:

• Ending the Teutonic Threat: The victory decisively broke the power of the Teutonic Order, which had long mounted crusading campaigns against Lithuania. The battle permanently reduced the German threat to the region and ended the order's expansion along the Baltic coast.12
• Territorial Gains: As a direct result of the victory, Lithuania gained control of the northwestern territory of Samogitia, a gain that was formally confirmed in 1422.2
• Emergence as a Great Power: The battle demonstrated the combined military strength of the Polish-Lithuanian forces. Following the defeat of the Knights, the Polish-Lithuanian union began to be recognized in the West as one of the most powerful states in eastern Europe.13
• Consolidation of Leadership: Led by Grand Duke Vytautas the Great and King Jogaila, the success solidified the political and military cooperation between the two states, marking a defining moment in their shared history.12