Gdansk in 1985. See pictures of the city from the sky

wbijamszpile.pl 8 months ago

Gdańsk in 1985 was the cradle of opposition to PRL. Welcome to the sentimental journey back to that time. See how the city looked at colorful photographs from the photographic archive of Lech Zielaskowski.

In 1985, respective crucial political and social events took place in Gdańsk, peculiarly related to the anti-communist opposition, which has been heavy active in the city since the early 1980s.

Gdańsk in 1985 Trials and repression of Solidarity activists

In May 1985, the process of leading activists of Solidarity: Władysław Frasyniuk, Bogdan Lisa and Adam Michnik began in Gdańsk. The Provincial Court in Gdańsk sentenced them in June to prison sentences, from 2.5 to 3.5 years, for their activity in the illegal National Commission of the NSZZ “Solidarity”. The trial sparked a stir both in Poland and abroad, as it symbolized the continuation of repression against the opposition during and after the martial law.

The worsening economical situation and protests

The 1980s brought many economical and social difficulties to Gdańsk. Increases in food prices were announced in 1985, which caused social tensions throughout the country, including in Gdańsk. On 1 July, the National Commission for Solidarity called for short protest strikes, but due to the hazard of repression, the strikes were limited.

Propaganda and control of media

In 1985, the PRL government intensified control of the media. On this wave, a Press Council was established in May, tasked with political supervision of publications and media to limit publication of opposition information

These actions had a peculiar impact on Gdańsk – the city which is the centre of the Solidarity action – due to the fact that it sought to suppress all forms of illegal publications and strengthen monitoring of the opposition environment.

Gdansk in opposition

Despite the hard situation and repression, Gdańsk was inactive a symbol of opposition to the power of the Polish People's Republic, as well as a place of solidarity, both formal and informal. The activity of Gdańsk organizations and oppositionists had a immense impact on the morale of the local community and the full of Poland, preparing the ground for changes that took place in subsequent years.