Polish Independence Day (11/11)

Independence Day in Poland, or rather — National Independence Day (Polish). Narodowe Święto Niepodległości), celebrated annually on November 11 in honor of the declaration of state independence from the domination of Germany, Russia and Austria in 1918.

On November 11, 1918, the First World War ended, and after 125 years of the division of Poland between Prussia, Russia and Austria, the country again appeared on the map of Europe. On this day, Jozef Pilsudski, Marshal of Poland, became head of state. On his instructions, the first democratic government was formed in Warsaw.

November 11 was declared a public holiday in 1937. But independent Poland existed only until September 1939, when it came under the rule of Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, which divided it among themselves. After the end of World War II, in 1945 Poland became a member of the socialist camp, and during this period Independence Day was not officially celebrated. This continued until 1989, when Poland held its first democratic elections.

Independence Day — is a state day off, which is accompanied by raising flags, a speech by the country's president, officials, famous political figures, as well as a military parade in the center of Warsaw. Celebrations, concerts and folk festivals are held in all cities of the country.

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