[15] Solidarity in Poland

What was life in Poland like?

The economic system was detrimental to peasants and caused food shortages among the working class.

What led to increased demands for a reform?

in 1956, Krushchev made his Secret Speech led to increased demands for a reform

What happened to initial riots that broke out in Poland?

were subdued by the government

What did the new leader introduce (what is his name), who was he and how did the Soviet react?

In 1956 Wladyslaw Gomulka introduced economic reforms, opening of private shops and allowing peasants to own land and control produce. The Soviets did not intervene as the changes were economic

After changes made by Poland’s new leader, what was their relationship with Russia

Poland remained in the Warsaw Pact and continued to host the Red Army

How did Solidarity start?

August 1960, workers at the Lenin Shipyard at Gdansk, Poland, went on strike over food prices and poor working conditions who were led by Lech Walesa an electrician.

How did the government react to Solidarity

The Polish government gave the workers the right to form a trade union and Solidarity was formed

How did Solidarity succeed where others failed?

Solidarity was well-organized, with national demands not just for dockworkers. It did not use violence and was supported by over 10 million Poles, with 80% of the Polish workforce as members.

What did the striker’ demand?

• Freedom of speech, press, and media access.

• Better wages and improved living conditions.

• Improved healthcare and social services.

• Fair distribution of goods to stop shortages.

How did General Jaruzelski act against the Solidarity movement

In 1981, he declared martial law after becoming president. He took serious action against strikes, flooding a mine in Upper Silesia with riot police, resulting in many miners drowning. He imprisoned Solidarity leaders, including Lech Walesa, and made the movement illegal.

What happened after Solidarity was banned?

In 1989, Solidarity was legalized again, and its members were allowed to stand for election in Poland. The union won every seat it contested in the Polish parliament. Lech Walesa served as President of Poland from 1990 to 1995.