From Roots to Resilience: A Historical Account of the Slovak Association's Development in Poland

Katarzyna M. Dvořáková; Peter S. Horváth

Authors

Katarzyna M. Dvořáková Faculty of Humanities, Charles University, Czech Republic
Peter S. Horváth Department of Slovak History, Comenius University, Slovakia

Keywords:

Slovak Association, Poland, cultural preservation, minority rights

Abstract

This study provides a historical account of the development of the Slovak Association in Poland, tracing its origins, evolution, and contemporary significance within the broader context of minority rights and cultural preservation. Drawing on archival records, oral histories, and organizational documents, the research chronicles key milestones, including the establishment of the association, its role in promoting Slovak language and heritage, and its engagement with political and social transformations in post-war Poland. The findings highlight how the association has navigated challenges related to assimilation pressures, shifting state policies, and changing community demographics. The analysis underscores the association’s resilience in sustaining cultural identity and fostering cross-border cooperation with Slovakia. By documenting this history, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of minority organizations’ contributions to cultural diversity and social cohesion in Central Europe.

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