He was the eldest son of Bolesław II the Bald, Duke of Legnica[1] and Hedwig, daughter of Henry I, Count of Anhalt.

This action provoked the indignation of Lesser Poland's nobility and Henry IV's neighbors, who then launched an expedition to free him and bring Bolesławto justice.

Henry maintained hostile relations with other Piast Silesian dukes, similar to his father's reign.

However, King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia challenged Henry IV's sovereignty over Wrocław (Breslau).

However, the nobility and citizens of Wrocław opposed this decision, fearing that the Duke of Głogów would be a harsh ruler.

Henry V secured his release by ceding the towns of Namysłów, Bierutów, Oleśnica, Kluczbork, Byczyna, Wołczyn, Olesno, Chojnów, with Bolesławiec and their fortifications to Henry III, paying a ransom of 30,000 pieces, and swearing to support the Duke of Głogów in all his struggles for the next five years.

Around 1273, Henry married Elisabeth (c. 1263 – 28 September 1304),[3] daughter of Bolesław the Pious, Duke of Greater Poland.