The State of Research on the National Education Commission in the Context of Its Anniversaries

Abstract

The aim of the article is to analyze the state of research on the Commission of National Education in the context of its anniversaries, especially anniversary celebrations and scientific achievements in 1873, 1973, 2013 and 2023. The historical-comparative method was used, which is used in research on the course of phenomena and processes taking place in past and is based mainly on the analysis of historical sources. Ceremonies commemorating the founding of KEN provoke increased interest in its merits, because the achievements of this distinguished institution are still in the center of attention, not only of historians, education historians, educators, lawyers, but also of those who treat the Polish Enlightenment tradition as an inspiration for reforming the education system. And this is hardly surprising, because the National Education Commission inspired young people with the spirit of citizenship and patriotism, and thus contributed to the survival of Polish culture and language. Moreover, subsequent anniversary celebrations are also a great way to pay tribute to the members and people cooperating with KEN. Generally, these are activities that serve to consolidate historical memory, because good memory of the past is also a clear awareness of the connection with the present.