Book description:
From the summer of 1980, Poland experienced a previously unimaginable time of euphoria. In the autumn of 1980, NSZZ “Solidarność” was registered - it was the first independent trade union movement since the end of World War II. Martial law imposed on 13 December 1981 brutally interrupted the festive atmosphere. It was announced in the run-up to Christmas and was a painful blow to Poles in Poland and abroad. The attempt to restore order using tanks was met with protests, not only in Poland. This outraged public opinion in the West, including Polish emigrants living outside Poland. The reactions from the first weeks after the imposition of martial law surpassed previous actions for Solidarity and gave a powerful impulse for further help. Various forms of protests - from rallies to letters and television programs - were rising. Transports with parcels and medical aid were sent to Poland, with the hope that at least some of them would reach those who really needed them. The decisions of the Polish People’s Republic authorities of 13 December 1981 greatly consolidated Western public opinion and mobilised a movement of support and assistance for the following years. From then on, it was easier to organise a concert, rally, or protest in front of the Polish embassy or consulate office. Solidarity was an important symbol that managed to unite people often from different camps and with different political beliefs. What united us immediately after 13 December became increasingly difficult to maintain over time. Therefore, it is worth remembering this special time and reflecting on the essence of its phenomenon - this is the purpose of this album.