Lech is a Polish masculine given name with deep roots in Slavic legend and national identity. According to Polish mythology, Lech was the name of the legendary founder of Poland, one of three brothers—Lech, Czech, and Rus—who parted ways and established the Slavic nations of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Rus (Kyivan Rus’). The name Lech is also the eponym of the Lechites, a group that includes the Poles. Its etymology likely derives from the old Slavic tribe of the Lędzianie (Lendians), whose name is also reflected in the Polish autonym Polanie. Etymology and Historical Context The name Lech is probably derived from the term for the Lendians, an early medieval Slavic tribe. The root lęd- or lędź- may be related to the word for "field" or "fallow land," with the name originally denoting "inhabitant of open country." In later centuries, Lech became a symbol of Polish sovereignty and national pride, appearing in chronicles such as those of Jan Długosz, who recounted the legendary origins of the nation. Notable Bearers Perhaps the most internationally recognized bearer is Lech Wałęsa (born 1943), the Polish electrician, trade-union activist, and former president who led the Solidarity movement and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983. Another prominent figure is Lech Kaczyński (1949–2010), who served as President of Poland from 2005 until his tragic death in the Smolensk air disaster. Other notable individuals include Lech Bądkowski (1920–1984), a writer and Kashubian activist; Lech Gardocki (born 1944), a lawyer and former First President of the Supreme Court of Poland; Lech Garlicki (born 1946), a jurist and constitutional law specialist; Lech Janerka (born 1953), a musician and songwriter; Lech Jęczmyk (born 1936), a publicist and translator; Lech Kołakowski (born 1963), a politician; and Lech Kowalski (born 1951), a British- Canadian documentary filmmaker. Cultural Significance As the legendary founder, Lech appears in variations of the national origin myth alongside his brothers Czech and Rus. The figure of Lech is often associated with the White Eagle, the national emblem of Poland, which according to legend appeared at the founding site of Gniezno. The name remains popular in Poland and among the Polish diaspora. Related Names A diminutive or affectionate form of Lech is Leszek. While Lech is a straightforward given name, Leszek has also become established as an independent name. Distribution Lech is primarily used in Poland and within Polish communities abroad. According to Polish official statistics, 14,289 people bear the surname Lech. As a given name, its use has fluctuated but retains a classic and heroic status. Meaning: Legendary founder of the Lechites; derivation from the Lendian tribe Origin: Polish, Slavic Gender: Masculine Related form: Leszek (diminutive) Main usage regions: Poland, global Polish diaspora