The inhabitants of Łódź in the face of the war threat of 1939. Moods – preparations – propaganda activities

Abstract

To increase international tension in the 1930s, state security has become one of the main tasks for the goverment of Poland. These tasks were realized according to the program “A nation under arms”. Whole society was covered by this program. The Polish people had to prepare for defense in all fields of public life. Apart from, cosolidation all Polish people around the army and its Supreme Commander was the next main point of this program. Preparation matters have taken on a special meaning in the last months before September 1939. Almost until the last days before the war broke out, various activities and initiatives were undertaken. The collections for the National Defense Fund which was created in April 1936, were of particular importence. The accumulation of the money was accompained by an extensive propaganda campaign. In this compaign patriotic feelings were reffered to Polish people, to their readiness and to personal commitment for the sake of their endangered homeland. Moods of the faith and trust in the strength of Polish army were the main theme of public propaganda in this time, in the whole country. Fundraising action for National Defense Fund was taken place in Łódź too. All actions were supported by press, among others “Kurier Łódzki”.