104 years of Poland’s Independence

November 11 is a public holiday in Poland, which commemorates the regaining of independence in 1918. It was after 123 years of partition, that the Republic of Poland became a sovereign state again. “It’s high time to make November 11 a holiday that is not only solemn but also joyful because thanks to independence, we can be ourselves and enjoy freedom,” Prime Minister wrote.

Following the partitions in the late 18th century, Poland ceased to exist for 123 years until the end of World War I, when the destruction of the neighbouring powers allowed the country to reemerge. 

On November 11, the Regency Council handed over military power and supreme command of the Polish army to Jozef Pilsudski. Wanting to commemorate this day, the Polish parliament passed a law establishing November 11 as Independence Day as early as 1937. It was celebrated only twice before World War II, because during World War II, the celebration was banned. After the war, the communist authorities of the People’s Republic removed Independence Day from the calendar. It was not until 1989 that November 11 was proclaimed Independence Day again.

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“A nation is also a big family, so it’s high time to make November 11 a holiday that is not only solemn but also joyful, because thanks to independence, we can be ourselves and enjoy freedom,” Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki wrote on Facebook. 

“On November 11, Poland is always the most beautiful. In our country, like in a family, each of us is different, but under the white and red flag, we can be one. And when I look especially at the children who sing the anthem and wave flags, I know that Poland has succeeded for us. Even if it has flaws, it is the greatest value worth living for and worth working for,” the Prime Minister said in a video posted today.