Why Poland Celebrates 1918 Independence Instead of 1945

Poland's historical journey is marked by major turning points, but the celebrations are often divided between the independence of 1918 and the so-called 'liberation' of 1945. The reasons for celebrating 1918 over 1945 are deeply rooted in the trauma of war and the subsequent communist rule, making 1918 a symbol of resilience and true autonomy.

The 1945 "Independence": A Bitter Milestone

A Desolate and Painful Start

In 1945, Poland was not in a celebratory mood. The end of World War II brought about the complete devastation of many Polish cities, the loss of cultural heritage, and the displacement of millions. The infamous architectural, artistic, and cultural treasures of Poland were plundered by the Nazis and transported to the Third Reich, a fact that resonates deeply with the Polish populace. Additionally, the Soviet army's occupation of Poland after the war brought with it a period of communist rule that lasted for 45 years, effectively stripping the Polish people of their true independence. This period was marked by political repression, economic tribulations, and a severe loss of freedoms.

The Destruction and Occupation

Wartime Devastation: Polish cities like Warsaw, once a cultural and economic center, lay in ruins. The city was virtually reduced to the ground, with 750 villages being burned and bombed. Cultural Losses: The Soviet occupation led to the theft of an estimated 60% of Polish cultural heritage, including art, artifacts, manuscripts, and books. Political Repression: Poland was subjected to a brutal communist regime that lasted until the fall of the Berlin Wall. The intelligentsia and the population were heavily suppressed, leading to a long period of stagnation and repression.

The trauma of these events is etched into the collective memory of the Polish people. Celebrating 1945, therefore, brings to mind a time of dispossession and suffering, rather than one of joy and liberation.

1918: A True Rebirth

A Pioneering Effort for Independence

The year 1918 marks a significant moment in Poland's history. After 123 years of partition under the rule of Russia, Austria, and Prussia, Poland re-emerged on the map of Europe as a fully independent nation. This was not just a date on a calendar; it was the result of numerous failed attempts to gain independence over the centuries. The achievement of 1918 was a monumental feat, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the Polish people.

The Differences and Commonality

1918 is remembered as a complex event, a process that unfolded over time rather than a single day. It was a period of transformation, with a diverse set of regions coming together to form a united Poland. Despite the differences in the experiences of these regions, the shared struggle and the successful attainment of independence created a unifying myth that is still celebrated today.

1918 represented true independence—autonomy and self-governance. While 1945 marked a return to independence in a nominal sense, the subsequent Soviet occupation reduced Poland to a province within the Soviet empire, lacking the true sovereignty of 1918.

Conclusion

Fiercely patriotic Poles, proud of their long history of resistance against domination, naturally harbor a deep respect for 1918. The independence of 1918 came at great cost but brought true freedom and sovereignty. In contrast, 1945, while symbolizing the end of WWII, also represented a return to an era of repression and loss of autonomy.

References

Patai, R. (1983). The Jews of Poland in History and Reality. Poland’s Centenary, 1918–2018 (2018). Speech by Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland. Czykala, K., Golonka, M. (2010). Poland's Independence: A Century of Struggle and Transformation.

With a rich and intricate past, Poland's preference for celebrating 1918 is a testament to its resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.