Territorial defence forces in Polish history (selected issues) Cover Image

Wojska obrony terytorialnej w historii Polski (wybrane problemy)
Territorial defence forces in Polish history (selected issues)

Author(s): Wojciech Sokół
Subject(s): Security and defense, Military policy
Published by: Oficyna Wydawnicza KA AFM
Keywords: civic army; common move; state defence system; territorial defence; territorial defence forces; Territorial Defence of the Country

Summary/Abstract: The purpose of this article is to justify the thesis that various forms of territorial defence have existed for many centuries of Polish history. Territorial defence generally effectively strengthened the defence capabilities of the Polish state. The organization and operation of territorial defense in the period of the Piast monarchy deserves a high rating. Territorial defense effectively counteracted the dangers of the 16th and 17th centuries. The lack of a regular army was compensated by troops organized territorially during the Polish national uprising. Similarly during the German occupation during World War II. Territorial defense forces were part of the armed forces during the Polish People’s Republic. They existed during the first years of modern Poland. The law of 16 November 2016 created a legal framework for the reconstruction of territorial defense. A fifth type of troops in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland was formed – the Army of Territorial Defense.

  • Issue Year: XXVIII/2017
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 317-330
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Polish