Ucieczki za granicę oraz inne formy nielegalnej emigracji w historii Śląska Opolskiego. Część I. Lata 1945–1955. Zarys problematyki w świetle materiałów cywilnego aparatu bezpieczeństwa
Escapes abroad and other forms of illegal emigration in the territory of Opole Silesia. Part I. Years 1945–1955. Outline of the issue in light of files of civilian security services

Summary/Abstract: In consequence of World War II, a vast zone of new Polish–Czechoslovakian borderland emerged, encompassing the area of prewar Opole (Oppeln) Regierungsbezirk, as well as the region of Lower Silesia with its capital in Wrocław. In the middle of year 1950, Opole Voivodeship (province) was created, with its southern border coinciding with the Polish–Czechoslovakian border. The population of the region presented pro-western attitude to a varying degree; however, this manifested differently in Silesians and in newcomers. In both Silesians and newcomers, fascination with the West together with disapproval of the situation in postwar Poland resulted, among other things, in attempts of illegally leaving the country, mostly in search of better living conditions abroad, but also for other reasons ,e.g. to evade the security apparatus. The proximity of the Polish–Czechoslovakian border, which within the Opole Silesia was easy to cross and lacked significant natural barriers, particularly encouraged escape attempts. After crossing the border, the escapees could count on reaching Austria or West Germany. Another opportunity of escape was offered by the Odra River with a large river port in Koźle – a communication “spine” of the region.

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