POLANDPolska

GARWOLIN – our city

High school im. Marszałka Jozefa Pilsudskiego in Garwolin – our schoolChurches in GarwolinRussian Cementary

To fully understand the Poles, you should know at least some basic

facts from the country’s history.A history is full of ups and downs,

both beautiful and difficult events.

To 18th century Poland was a very big and strong country.

In 18th century Poland disappeared from the map of

the world as a result of partitions.

After the First World War in 1918 Poland regained

independence.

Today Poland is one of the biggest European countries

with the population of 38 million and the capital

in Warsaw.

While thinking of the history of Poland, you get to know some great

personalities; people who contributed greatly to the changes not only in our country, but also in Europe and in the

whole world.

Karol Wojtyla – John Paul II

LECH WALESA

President of Poland 1990–1995 and

Awarded with Peace Nobel Prize.

He presided over free trade unions SOLIDARNOSC.Trade unions which were struggling for freedom and sovereignty, for independence from the Soviet Union.

JOZEF PILSUDSKI

Patron of our school.

Jozel Pilsudski was a genius commander who led the Polish army in the battle of Warsaw in

1920. Thanks to that effort the bolsheviks pushed back from Europe and the continent was protected from the flood of Communism.

FREDERIC CHOPIN

Eminent Polish composer and

pianist.

Polish people who we are proud of

ADAM MICKIEWICZ

One of the most notable poets.

MARIA SKLODOWSKA-

CURIE

Famous Polish scientist. Awarded twice with a Nobel

Prize (Chemistry and Physics).

The crucial point in modern Polish history was 1989 when the communist system was

replaced by democracy.

After many years of humiliating experiences, many believed to regain freedom and independence. It was

back then that a long and complicated process of internal changes began. The main idea behind those changes has always been the conviction that Poland

is a part of Europe, it has been one since the beginning of the state’s existence in the 10th century

The process of Polish entry into the structures of European Union was the most important issue.

The government started efforts in 1989 when the agreement about trade and cooperation between

Poland and the EU was signed.

In 1994 Poland applied for membership in the EU. For us it was a way to democracy and

comprehensive development which has brought concrete, measurable results.

In 2002 Poland signed Accession Treaty in Copenhagen.

In 2003 the Poles voted in referendum about joining the EU. 77,5% of the Poles said ‘yes’.

The Treaty of Accession was signed in Athens on 16th April 2003, bringing Poland in the EU.

Poland joined the EU on 1st May 2004

Poland has access to EU structural funds to help develop regions and improve infrastructure. Bridges,

swimming pools, roads are being built.

GARWOLINBYDGOSZCZGDYNIADZIERŻENIÓWRADOM

What do the Poles think about EU? What bothers us? What makes us

happy?

Benefits of joining the EU:

Polish students can participate in the educational programmes which gives scholarships for studying abroad

No boundaries between all EU countries, no visas,

easy travelling

Possibility to move to any member country and find a legal job

The introduction of the common European currency – the EURO

The emigration of our specialists – for example, doctors

We are worried about:

We feel the community despite the differences