Polish Catholics in Harbin. In an effort to preserve national identity

Abstract

The primary purpose of the article is to add to the knowledge of the activities of the Polish colony in Harbin (Manchuria) by analyzing unpublished archival documents on the subject. The documents supplement already existing publications on the role of Poles in the process of planning and construction of the East China Railway (KWZD) and the operation of this trade route using the most important railroad junction, whose architects were Poles of Harbin. The period covered by the analysis is the late 19th–mid-20th centuries. Particular attention was paid to the care of the Harbin Polish community to preserve its national identity. The Catholic Church and the Polish schools established in Manchuria played a major role in this. The values that accompanied the functioning of educational and religious institutions based on the principles of tolerance and acceptance of diversity, as well as the involvement of Poles in the economic development of Manchuria can be an important element of Polish soft power towards China and building the image of Poland.