The German-speaking Population in Poland Before World War II
In the historical context of pre-WWII Poland, the country was a significant home to a substantial number of German-speaking people. These individuals were not only a minority within the Polyness population but were also distributed across various regions with historical German ties. This article examines the extent of the German-speaking population before World War II and the impact of subsequent events on their demographic standing.
Historical Context
The 1938 Census of Poland revealed that the population was approximately 39 million. Various sources cite different figures, with one book stating 24 million, which is likely based on an even earlier census. Regardless, numerous ethnic groups coexisted within Poland, including Belarusians, Ukrainians, Germans, and Hungarians. These groups contributed to the complex social fabric of the region.
Population Figures and Residential Distribution
According to historical records, approximately 750,000 ethnic Germans resided in Poland between 1919 and 1939. These individuals primarily lived in regions that had formerly been part of German/Prussian territories such as West Prussia and Posen. These areas were ceded to Poland by the post-WWI Allied powers, including Britain and France, during the 1919 Versailles Peace Conference. It is important to note that post-WWII Poland, from July 1945, is a significantly different nation in terms of its territorial and political boundaries.
The Impact of World War II and Its Aftermath
The war and subsequent political shifts dramatically altered the demographics of the region. The Soviet Union is reported to have deported about 4 million Germans from Prussia and the new Oder-Niess River boundary area. This region, which was about 17% of Germany, saw significant changes. The post-war governments of Czechoslovakia and Poland were particularly stringent towards Germans, leading to extensive population displacements.
Intermarriage and Cultural Integration
Intermarriages between Poles and Germans did occur, though they were often looked down upon by the majority. For instance, the author’s great-grandfather married a German woman and was subsequently shunned by his family. Despite such social pressure, many families kept this heritage hidden and passed it on through generations.
Post-War Life and Current Numbers
With the end of World War II and the subsequent political changes, a dramatic shift in the German-speaking population occurred. By the end of the war, the vast majority of these ethnic Germans were expelled from Poland and the newly defined eastern regions. The number of ethnic Germans in modern Poland has significantly reduced, with only about 130,000 remaining. This marks a substantial loss of a historical and cultural component that once played a significant role in the region's population.
Conclusion
The German-speaking population in pre-WWII Poland was a diverse and significant part of the region's history. Their numbers, distribution, and cultural integration highlight the complex nature of the Polish-German relationship. The war and subsequent political changes drastically altered this reality, leaving a legacy that continues to be felt in contemporary demography and historical narratives.