NATO member Poland paid tribute on August 15, 2024, to its historic 1920 victory over the Red Army by honoring fallen Poles and showing off modern tanks and other equipment that it hopes will deter the threat it sees in modern-day Russia. More than 2,500 Polish troops, joined by dozens of allied soldiers, rode in military vehicles, or flew in fighter jets and helicopters in Warsaw on the Armed Forces Day holiday. Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz wrote a letter to soldiers, stating that the holiday is a reminder of “the most glorious episodes of the Polish army, of the price of independence and freedom.” (AP, 08/15/2024)
Poland’s history is rich and complex. Here’s a concise overview:
- Early State: Poland emerged in the late 10th century. The Poles, a West Slavic people, inhabited a land covered by forests. Clans grouped into tribes, and dukes transformed tribal organization into territorial units. Mieszko I, the first ruler of the Polanie tribe, is considered the founder of the Piast dynasty.
- Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth: In the 16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth became Europe’s second-largest state after Russia. It was a powerful entity that spanned vast territories.
- Partitions and Independence: However, Poland faced challenges. During the Partitions of Poland (1772–1918), it disappeared from the map, divided among Russia, Prussia, and Austria. It regained independence in 1918 but suffered during two world wars.
- Holocaust and Soviet Rule: Tragically, Poland’s historically strong Jewish population was nearly annihilated during the Holocaust. After World War II, Poland became a Soviet satellite state.
- Solidarity and Democracy: Labor turmoil in 1980 led to the formation of the independent trade union Solidarity, which played a crucial role in Poland’s transition to democracy in 1989.
Polish Armed Forces Day: Poland demonstrates power | German News 15.08.2024
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