Review: Różnymi drogi do niepodległości. Studies in recent history

In the work 'Różnymi drogami do niepodległości. Studies in Recent History', a number of authors contribute to a multi-layered portrait of Poland's road to independence. This book, which is a collection of essays, appeals to the reader with its depth of analysis and diversity of perspectives, showing the complexity of the historical processes that shaped Poland in different eras. Each chapter, written by a different author, is like a separate stone in the mosaic of Polish history, combining to form a whole picture of a nation struggling for its identity and independence. This review wishes to pay tribute to the unique voices contained in the book and emphasise the importance of constantly reminding ourselves of our rich past, which shapes our present and future.

Grzegorz Cwyl: Battle of Iłża - Symbol of Resistance

Cwyl's chapter is a fascinating account of the Battle of Ilza, which was one of the key moments in the struggle for Polish independence. The author skilfully weaves the fates of individual heroes with the broad historical context, showing the battle as a symbol of Polish resistance.

Marcin Wasilewski: Veterans of the Uprisings - Living Remembrance

Wasilewski focuses on the figures of the veterans of the 19th century uprisings, emphasising their role in shaping national memory. He shows how their deeds inspired subsequent generations of Poles.

Małgorzata Krupecka USJK: Ursula Ledóchowska - The Scandinavian Mission

Krupecka presents Urszula Ledóchowska's activities as an example of female strength and determination in the pursuit of independence. Her mission in the Scandinavian countries is an invaluable contribution to the Polish cause.

Barbara Switalska: Pilsudski from Magdeburg

Świtalska sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Józef Piłsudski's life, focusing on his time spent in Magdeburg prison. She reveals his uneasy path to becoming the leader of an independent Poland.

Grzegorz Michalak: Russian Politics and Warsaw Parishes

Michalak analizuje wpływ rosyjskiej polityki na warszawskie parafie protestanckie po wybuchu I wojny światowej, ukazując złożoność stosunków między różnymi narodami i religiami w Polsce.

Lukasz Lewicki: Legislative Sejm - Voice of the Army

Lewicki's chapter takes a closer look at the interpellations of the MPs of the Legislative Sejm, shedding light on the problems of the Polish Army during the Polish-Bolshevik War. It is an instructive lesson on the hardships of building an army.

Adam Wiorko: The Secret Service in Defence of Independence

Wiorko presents an extremely interesting history of the Polish secret services, showing their role in defending the country's independence. It is a story of courage and cunning.

Emilia Dziewiecka: Revindication of Cultural Property

Dziewiecka focuses on an important aspect of the recovery of Polish cultural property from the USSR. Her analysis of the case of the return of the Wawel tapestries provides a fascinating example of the diplomatic struggle for national heritage.

Piotr Anczewski: Princess Radziwiłł - Care in Times of War

Anczewski takes a closer look at the activities of Princess Izabella Radziwiłł, highlighting her significant role in organising aid during the Second World War. She is an example of female strength and dedication.

Sebastian Bojemski: NSZ vs Communists - The Interview Game

Bojemski focuses on the communists' attempts to infiltrate the National Armed Forces. This is a fascinating story about the intelligence game during the occupation.

Elżbieta Romanowska: Major Kielasiński - Hero of the Underground

Romanowska creates a portrait of Major Aleksander Kielasinski, a hero of Underground Poland. Her description of his life and achievements is a tribute to all the unknown heroes of the fight for freedom.

Ilona Lewandowska: AK in Tuskuleny - Memory and Sacrifice

Lewandowska touches on the soldiers of the Home Army and those supporting the Polish underground buried in mass graves in Tuskuleny. It is a moving chapter on remembrance and sacrifice.

Agnieszka Pietrzak: Post-War Home Army Conspiracy

Pietrzak analyses the actions of the Home Army battalions 'Zośka' and 'Parasol', contrasting them with the version presented by the functionaries of the Ministry of the Interior. This is an important voice in the discussion of post-war reality.

Norbert Wozniak: 1914 calendar

Wozniak presents a detailed calendar of the events of 1914, providing an important reference point for understanding the historical context.

"Różnymi drogami do niepodległości" (Different Roads to Independence) is an excellent read for anyone who values patriotism and appreciates the Polish narrative of history. Each chapter is a different voice in the polyphonic narrative of the road to independence, showing the diversity of experiences and perspectives. This book is not only a tribute to the heroes of the past, but also an inspiration to generations who continue to draw strength and determination from these lessons.