Polen (Mai - November 1979)
Poland (May to November 1979)

Summary/Abstract: The visit of Pope John Paul II to Poland in June was undoubtedly the most important domestic political event. During his nine-day tour of the country, the Pope was greeted with a triumphant reception by the populace everywhere. Numerous Catholic pilgrims came from other Eastern Bloc countries, especially from neighboring Slovakia. During his stay in Warsaw, the Pope also met party leader Gierek. Undoubtedly, the Pope's visit further strengthened the position of the Catholic Church in Poland. The party and government will have to take this factor into account in the future as well, since the church was able to exert a moderating influence on the growing dissatisfaction of the population.

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