Vyhráli jsme druhou světovou válku? Diskuse o Národním dni vítězství v Polsku
Did We Win World War II? Discussion on National Victory Day in Poland

Summary/Abstract: The text examines the long‑lasting controversy in Poland over whether the country can truly be considered a victor of the Second World War, despite its major military contribution to defeating Nazi Germany. It highlights that Poland’s wartime alliance with the Western powers did not prevent its post‑1945 subjugation by the Soviet Union, which imposed a communist regime and deprived the country of genuine independence. The article details how Poland was territorially reduced, demographically devastated, and politically marginalized, including being excluded from key postwar ceremonies and diplomatic events. It explores how communist authorities promoted 9 May as the Day of Victory, aligning Poland’s commemorative practices with the Soviet narrative and suppressing alternative interpretations. Over time, Polish public memory shifted, with later generations valuing national milestones such as the 1918 independence or the 1791 Constitution more highly than the end of World War II. The text also traces parliamentary debates from 1989 to 2015 about abolishing or redefining Victory Day, ultimately leading to the establishment of 8 May as the National Day of Victory. These debates reveal a deep national divide over whether 1945 represents victory, defeat, or a “bitter victory” overshadowed by Soviet domination. The article emphasizes persistent tension between historical fact, political symbolism, and collective memory. It concludes that contemporary Poland shows little interest in the state holiday, suggesting that the true symbol of Polish victory is better represented by 15 August, commemorating the 1920 Battle of Warsaw.

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