Historical Conflicts and Reconciliation Efforts between Poland and Germany

Subtitle: Focusing on the Activities of the German-Polish Textbook Commission

published in Rocznik Instytutu Europy Środkowo-Wschodniej, 2018, Vol. 16, z. 2, s. 143-157, bibliogr. 18, Yearbook of the Institute of East-Central Europe

Far into the 17th century, the Republic of Two Nations [Rzeczpospolita Obojga Narodów], that is, the Crown of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, seemed to be one of the most powerful countries in the world. Diverse problems such as the wars with Turkey, Russia and Sweden notwithstanding, the Commonwealth did enjoy military successes, the best evidence of which was undoubtedly the subjugation of Moscow during the Time of Troubles or Jan Sobieski's victory at the Battle of Vienna against the Ottoman Turks led by the Grand Vizier, Kara Mustafa, in 1683. Those few, yet still spectacular, victories relaxed the vigilance of the Polish Republic and no significant reforms were introduced to facilitate functioning of the country in the 17th and the first half of the 18th century. The lack of reforms and a limited royal power contributed to the Republic no longer being an equal to her neighbours: Russia, Prussia and Austria, all of which were developing particularly fast during that period of time. It should not be considered an exaggeration if one would point here to two truly remarkable rulers, that is, Peter I (1689-1725) and Catherine II (1762- 1796), the reign of whom lasted 70 years in total.

The information is taken from Krakow University of Economics' digital bibliography.