On November 11, 1918, with the end of World War I, Poland regained its independence after 123 years. The darkest chapter in the history of my country took place in the second half of the 18th century when the state, torn apart by internal conflicts, was absorbed by its neighbors: Prussia, Austria, and Russia. The Partitions occurred in the years 1772, 1792 and 1795.

Today, I won’t talk about technology. Today is a time for reflection. Reflection on our history. Who you are and where you come from is a result of events from the past. That’s why I invite you on a short journey through the history of my country. I’ve chosen 5 historical figures and 5 events that will bring you closer to the history of my country.

Historical figures

• Mieszko I - first historic ruler of Poland. He united the scattered Slavic tribes, creating the foundations of the Polish state,
• Władysław Jagiełło, Grand Duke of Lithuania, later King of Poland (for over 50 years). Founder of the Jagiellonian dynasty, which led Poland to Polish Golden age in the 16th century,
• Kazimierz Pułaski, hero of two nations. After failed mission of protecting Poland from Russian influence (sentenced to death in Poland), he emigrated to new born United States of America and become a general, earned the nickname "The Father of American cavalry",
• Maria Skłodowska-Curie, polish chemist and physicst. First woman to win Nobel Prize twice, and the only person to win a Nobel Prize in two scientific fields. The only woman who participated in Solvay Conference.
• Lech Wałęsa, electrician by profession, Nobel Peace Prize winner, first democratically elected President if free Poland (1990-1995). Leader of solidarity movement which contributed to the end of communist rule in Poland

Historical events

• The baptism of Poland, 966. In those times, the baptism of the state was synonymous with the baptism of the ruler governing the country. Mieszko I was baptized by the Czechs, sealing the alliance with them by his marriage to Dobrawa,
• Creation of the Jagiellonian University, 1364. Founded by Kazimierz III and later renewed by queen Jadwiga is oldest polish university (also oldest in central Europe). Until these days is still one of the best in the country,
• Battle of Grunwald, 15 VII 1410. One of the greatest medieval battles, fought between the Teutonic Order and the Kingdom of Poland, ended in Poland's victory and, consequently, the decline of the Teutonic Order's power. If you speak polish I recommend you to watch those 2 episodes on youtube part 1 & part 2 - Castellan of Chojnik Castle - Jędrek (same name as mine 🚀🚀🚀) tells the story of this battle in a gripping way,
• Deluge, 1655-1660. Invasion and occupation of the Polish territory by Sweden. One of the darkest periods in Polish history, during which the country was utterly devastated, and its power was irreversibly broken,
• Constitution of 3 May, 1791. First in the Europe, second in the world (after that of the United States). The constitution was supposed to be a rescue for the falling Polish state, it contained a number of thorough reforms. Until this day 3rd May is national holiday in Poland.

At the end let me explain what you can see as hero image. Depicted building (to be precised vector version of it) is the Palace of Culture and Science (located in the capital of Poland - Warsaw). It was build right after II world war , as a gift from Soviet Nation. From this reason it is known as popular communism symbol in Poland (1945-1989). That period teaches us one thing: the political situation may change, but our identity stays with us forever - just as it was with the Poles during the 123 years of partitions and helped in the rebirth of the Polish state. Glory and honor to the heroes fighting for a free Poland!