11/11

11/11 Polish Independence Day

On November the 11th Poles celebrate Independence Day. In the past the Polish Kingdom was one of the largest country in Europe. In 1795 Poland disappeared from the map of Europe for 123 years. Three powerful neighbours divided Poland into three parts. There was no Polish school and Polish pupils could not speak Polish. However, Poles never forgot about their country. They organised uprising but they lost each time. The end of the World War I was the best opportunity for regaining independence. The Commandant Josef Pilsudski symbolises the fight for independence. On November 11, 1918 the Polish Republic was declared.
Since then Poles who live in Poland and all over the world celebrate Polish Independence Day. President, Sejm and Senat speakers, members of the government and others state officials attend a gala change of guards at Warsaw’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. People watch a military parade with participants wearing military uniforms from years 1918-1945. Independence Day Celebrations take place throughout the country. Each school organises a special assembly. Students sing patriotic songs and recite poems.