Warsaw
Completed

From Poland with Love: An Exhibition on Polish Gratitude for US Independence Aid

Discover the profound historical connections between Poland and the United States at this compelling exhibition.

The exhibition 'From Poland with Love' at the History Meeting House details Poland's deep appreciation for the United States' crucial support in achieving independence in 1918. It highlights the significant 'Declaration of Admiration and Friendship,' a powerful symbol of early 20th-century Polish-American relations. Explore documents and narratives revealing the diplomatic and material aid that shaped an independent Poland's future.

About From Poland with Love at History Meeting House in Warsaw

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for From Poland with Love at History Meeting House in Warsaw

Exhibition summary

This exhibition explores the profound gratitude of Poles for the United States' assistance in Poland's regaining of independence in 1918. It highlights the historical 'Declaration of Admiration and Friendship for the United States,' signed by millions of Poles, and delves into the diplomatic and material support provided by the US that was crucial for Poland's survival.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'From Poland with Love' narrates the moving story of Polish gratitude for the United States' role in Poland's regaining independence in 1918. A central piece is the 'Declaration of Admiration and Friendship for the United States,' a massive document signed by 5.5 million Poles in 1926, including prominent figures like Bruno Schulz, Czesław Miłosz, Tadeusz Kantor, Jan Karski, Józef Piłsudski, and Ignacy Mościcki. The exhibition revisits forgotten Polish-American relations, underscored by this declaration stored in the U.S. Library of Congress. A century ago, through efforts like Ignacy Paderewski's, the USA not only recognized Polish statehood as vital for European peace, as outlined in President Woodrow Wilson's 13-point program, but also provided crucial material aid to the Second Polish Republic, valued at approximately 200 million dollars. The American humanitarian mission, led by future US President Herbert Hoover, significantly contributed to maintaining Poland's recently regained independence. Zbigniew Gluza, president of the KARTA Centre and author of the exhibition concept, emphasizes the critical importance of US support, stating that Poland's history might have unfolded differently without it, and the nation's borders could have been altered. The exhibition offers an opportunity to recognize the immense significance of external allies' support for independent Poland's existence and how the Republic acknowledged it. Presidents Woodrow Wilson and Herbert Hoover became symbols of aid for Poles in the Second Republic, with their contributions recognized in Warsaw's urban landscape, including the Hoover Square and the now-gone Monument to Gratitude to America, as well as the naming of Wilson Square in Żoliborz. The exhibition features four large-format installations along Krakowskie Przedmieście and an electronic presentation at the History Meeting House, showcasing the full 'Declaration of Admiration and Friendship.' Through the 'Poland 1926. Collective Portrait of the Second Polish Republic' portal, visitors can search for their relatives, students, or townsfolk among the 5.5 million signatories. The exhibition is structured into three thematic blocks: diplomatic aid (1915–1919), material assistance (1919–1922), and the expression of gratitude through the 'Declaration of Admiration and Friendship' (1926).

Admission and ticket notes

Information about ticketing and admission is not explicitly detailed on this page. Visitors are directed to the History Meeting House for the exhibition presentation, suggesting standard venue access or potential museum entry fees may apply. For specific details, it is recommended to consult the official website or venue information separately.

From Poland with Love key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for From Poland with Love at History Meeting House in Warsaw

Venue
History Meeting House
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Oct 1, 2017 – Jan 14, 2018
Artist line / attribution
Exhibition concept by Zbigniew Gluza. Text selection and development by Adam Safaryjski and Zuzanna Schnepf-Kołacz. Iconography selection by Joanna Łuba. Graphic design and arrangement by Kłaput Project. Special thanks to Dr. Ryszard Schnepf (former US Ambassador to Poland, initiator of the exhibition title), Dr. Grażyna Żebrowska, Samuel Ponczak, Krzysztof Willmann, Nicholas Siekierski, Dorota Wysocka-Schnepf, and Grzegorz Kołacz.
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