Council of Three (Poland)

Council of Three (Polish: ''Rada Trzech'') refers to an informal, unofficial body within the Polish government during specific periods of Polish history. There is no single, consistently defined "Council of Three," but the term is used retrospectively to describe groups of three powerful individuals who exerted significant influence on Polish political decision-making. The exact composition and timeframe vary depending on the historical context.

The term is most often used in relation to periods of instability or crisis, when a triumvirate of powerful figures – often including a king or monarch, a high-ranking noble, and a powerful church official or military leader – effectively controlled policy despite lacking formal authority. Their influence often derived from a combination of personal connections, political maneuvering, and control over key resources or military forces.

Research into specific instances of "Councils of Three" is often hampered by a lack of surviving primary documentation and the fluid nature of power during these periods. Consequently, historians often rely on secondary sources and interpretations that may be subject to differing perspectives. Detailed studies of particular historical instances are needed to fully understand the function and impact of these informal power structures. Mentioning a specific historical period and its involved figures will help establish a more concrete definition of a particular "Council of Three." Further research is required for more comprehensive information.