POLITICS OF HISTORICAL MEMORY IN MODERN POLAND

Abstract

The research investigates different approaches to the policy of historical memory in Poland nowadays. The main focus of the paper is the policy of Law and Justice party that represents a conservative wing in Polish politics. The party gave a response to the activities of those historians, political writers and other thinkers who called to explore and openly discuss the shameful pages of Poland’s history, and to strive for its objective assessment in the name of truth, the triumph of universal moral values, as well as for the purpose of learning lessons from the mistakes of the past. Conservatives reproach their opponents for creating a negative image of Polish history, exaggerating facts that make Poles ashamed of their history and instill a complex of guilt and inferiority for the whole nation. The leaders of Law and Justice party believe that historical policy should strengthen the Polish state and promote a positive image of the national history. They want Polish society to pay more attention to the historical episodes that cause a sense of national pride. Conservatives consider it an important task to preserve the historical memory of the victims and suffering of the Polish people, especially in the twentieth century. They pay great attention to the disclosure of activities of state security agencies during the times of the People's Republic of Poland and struggle against all symbols of Poland’s communistic past. The Law and Justice party attaches special importance to the glorification of the heroes of the national liberation movement and to the fighters against the Communist regime in post-war Poland. Conservatives believe that these people should embody the morale of the Polish nation and serve as an example for present and future generations.