Review: By Different Roads to Independence. Studies in recent history

In the work "By Different Roads to Independence. 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 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 emphasize the importance of constantly reminding ourselves of our rich past, which shapes our present and future.

Grzegorz Cwyl: The Battle of Ilza - Symbol of Resistance

Cwyl's chapter is a fascinating account of the Battle of Ilza, one of the key moments in the struggle for Polish independence. The author skillfully 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 Memories

Vasilevskiy focuses on the figures of veterans of 19th century uprisings, emphasizing 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 Ursula Ledóchowska's activities as an example of female strength and determination in the pursuit of independence. Her mission in Scandinavian countries is an invaluable contribution to the Polish cause.

Barbara Switalska: Pilsudski of Magdeburg

Switalska sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Jozef Pilsudski'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 analyzes the impact of Russian policies on Warsaw's Protestant parishes after the outbreak of World War I, revealing the complexity of relations between different nations and religions in Poland.

Lukasz Lewicki: Legislative Sejm - Voice of the Army

Levitsky's chapter takes a closer look at the interpellations of the deputies 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 Defense 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 Radziwill - Care in Times of War

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

Sebastian Bojemski: NSZ vs. the Communists - The Intelligence Game.

Bojemski focuses on the communists' attempts to infiltrate the National Armed Forces. It is a fascinating tale of 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 AK soldiers and those supporting the Polish underground, buried in mass graves in Tuskuleny. This is a touching chapter on memory and sacrifice.

Agnieszka Pietrzak: The Post-War Conspiracy of the Home Army

Pietrzak analyzes the actions of the Home Army battalions "Zośka" and "Parasol," contrasting them with the version presented by MBP functionaries. This is an important voice in the discussion of postwar reality.

Norbert Wozniak: Calendar 1914

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

"By 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.