8 - March 1968 in Poland

Summary

Poland's important historical events are traditionally designated by the names of months. Thus, when Poles speak of “September” (written, despite the rules of Polish orthography, with a capital “S”), they mean the year 1939, the beginning of World War II, and their isolated struggle against German and Soviet aggression. When someone speaks of “October,” this refers to the year 1956 and its tumultuous political events, including the threat of Soviet military intervention and the euphoria over Wtadystaw Gomulka's return to power. Considered the “messenger of providence,” Gomutka was able to democratize, liberalize, and humanize the system. When someone speaks of “December,” this refers either to the workers' revolt on the Baltic coast in 1970 or to General Wojciech Jaruzelski s imposition of martial law in 1981.

When “March” is invoked, the year 1968 is undoubtedly recalled. Unlike the three earlier examples, however, there is still disagreement over the meaning of the tragic events of that year, which have been interpreted according to different perspectives and personal experiences. Those who were students in 1968 emphasize the meetings, demonstrations, and strikes at the universities. Members of the world of culture, science, and the arts have stressed the violent campaign against the intellectuals, as well as the ensuing purge of the mass media, publishing houses, and university faculties.