Everything Everywhere Daily Solidarity
Jan 27, 2026
A look at how a worker-led movement in Poland challenged Soviet rule and reshaped global politics. Traces economic collapse, a pivotal shipyard strike, and a surprising agreement that legalized unions. Follows mass nonviolent resistance, spiritual influence from the Pope, martial law backlash, and the movement's return leading to negotiated elections and a peaceful political transition.
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Debt And Shortages Fueled Dissent
- Poland's heavy Western borrowing in the 1970s created unsustainable debt and economic collapse by the early 1980s.
- Surging inflation, job losses, and shortages eroded public trust and fueled demands for political liberalization.
A Pope Amplified Polish Resolve
- The election of Karol Wojtyla as Pope John Paul II in 1978 energized Polish nationalism and moral resistance to communism.
- His spiritual framing amplified hopes for change and strengthened Solidarity's legitimacy.
Gdansk Strike Sparks A Movement
- Lech Walesa climbed the shipyard fence and organized a strike after a crane operator was fired, turning a local grievance into national action.
- The 18-day Gdansk strike led to the Gdansk Agreement granting union rights and the legal right to strike.