„Nie łzawe wspomnienia dawnych bojów, ale realna nauka z przeszłości”. O świętowaniu rocznicy niepodległości w szkołach II Rzeczypospolitej refleksji kilka

The article discusses the question of celebrations of Poland’s Independence Day – November 11th. The tradition of celebrating state holidays in Polish schools dates back to the era of the National Education Commission, which in 1783 ordered official celebrations of the centenary of king John III’s victory over the Turks at Vienna. After 123 years of foreign subjugation, which broke the connection between the citizens and the state, Poland returned to the tradition of celebrating state holidays in schools. Several brochures with proposed event scripts, poems, and small plays were published in order to ensure the celebrations would be given an appropriate flair. “Płomyk”, a magazine for slightly older children, was also involved in the preparation for independence anniversary celebrations. The issue of celebrating state holidays in schools was also considered within teaching theory: on the one hand, they were considered very valuable educationally – particularly for instilling patriotic and civil virtues, on the other, it was remarked that the students were bored with the ceremonies.