November 11 marks a significant day on the Polish calendar, as the nation commemorates the regaining of its independence in 1918. This pivotal moment came after enduring 123 years of partitions, during which Poland ceased to exist as a sovereign state. The day holds historical importance as it symbolizes resilience, unity, and the unwavering spirit of the Polish people.
The late 18th century saw the partitions of Poland, a period of immense hardship and struggle. For over a century, the nation grappled with external control and the loss of its sovereignty. However, the tides of fate shifted with the conclusion of World War I. The destruction of neighboring powers paved the way for Poland to reclaim its status as a sovereign state.
“Independence is like love. You have to take care of it. You have to respect her. It has to be appreciated. And you have to fight for it every day With actions, not just words, slogans or declarations. Every day we write new pages of Polish history together. Independence is continuous work for a better future for our children (…) Let us joyfully celebrate what unites us, not divides us. Long live the independent, safe and united Republic of Poland!”
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki wrote on X.
Niepodległość jest jak miłość. Trzeba o nią dbać. Trzeba ją szanować. Trzeba ją doceniać. I trzeba o nią walczyć każdego dnia!
— Mateusz Morawiecki (@MorawieckiM) November 11, 2023
Czynami, a nie tylko słowami, sloganami czy deklaracjami.
Codziennie wspólnie piszemy kolejne strony historii Polski. Niepodległość jest ciągłą pracą… pic.twitter.com/0DZSD2ZuJq
From Suppression to Resurgence: The Complex History of Poland’s Independence Day Celebration
On November 11, 1918, a pivotal moment unfolded as the Regency Council handed over military power and supreme command of the Polish army to Jozef Pilsudski. This transition marked the official reemergence of Poland as a self-governing nation. In recognition of this momentous event, the Polish parliament passed a law in 1937, establishing November 11 as Independence Day.
However, the celebration of Independence Day faced challenges in the years that followed. The outbreak of World War II led to a ban on the commemoration of this significant day. The war years were marked by struggle and sacrifice, and the Polish people had to endure the suppression of their national celebrations.
Reclaiming Independence: Poland’s Triumph Over Communist Suppression and the Revival of National Pride
Post-World War II, the communist authorities of the People’s Republic removed Independence Day from the calendar. This period of erasure reflected a broader suppression of national identity under communist rule. It wasn’t until 1989, following the fall of communism, that November 11 was officially reinstated as Independence Day.
Since then, Poland has celebrated Independence Day with renewed vigor and pride. The day is a testament to the nation’s resilience, overcoming centuries of challenges to stand tall as a sovereign state. The festivities on November 11 include various events, ceremonies, and parades across the country, bringing people together to honor their shared history and celebrate the freedom that was hard-fought and earned.