Solidarność Twenty years of history

Solidarność Twenty years of history

Solidarity: Twenty Years of History is a documentary and historical publication devoted to the Polish trade union movement “Solidarity” and its impact on the political transformation of Poland in the late 20th century. The book presents a broad overview of the movement from its origins in 1980 at the Gdańsk Shipyard strikes through the period of martial law, underground opposition activity, and finally the peaceful transition toward democracy in 1989 and the early 1990s.

The publication combines historical narrative with archival materials, photographs, testimonies, and analytical essays that illustrate both the social and political dimensions of the movement. Special attention is given to key events such as the August Agreements, the role of workers, intellectuals, and the Catholic Church, as well as the international significance of Solidarity in the context of the Cold War. It also highlights the leadership figures and grassroots activists who contributed to sustaining the movement despite repression.