July 2024

Historical events of significance to Poland & the U.S. that occurred in the month of July

Poland - 1410 (July 15th)

The Battle of Grunwald, also known as the Battle of Tannenberg, it was one of the largest battles in medieval Europe and a decisive confrontation during the Polish-Lithuanian-Teutonic War. The allied forces of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, led by King Władysław II Jagiełło, won a decisive victory over the Teutonic Knights.

Poland - 1569 (July 1st)

The Union of Lublin was signed, creating the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which became one of the largest and most powerful countries in 16th and 17th century Europe.

United States - 1776 (July 4th)

The United States Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Second Continental Congress, declaring the 13 American colonies as independent from British rule.

Poland - 1807 (July 22nd)

Napoleon created the Duchy of Warsaw, a Polish state established by the French Emperor as a satellite state of the French Empire.

United States - 1863 (July 1st-3rd)

The Battle of Gettysburg, a significant turning point in the American Civil War, took place in Pennsylvania.

United States - 1881 (July 2nd)

President James A. Garfield was shot by Charles J. Guiteau. Garfield died from his wounds on September 19, 1881.

Poland - 1944 (planning began in July)

While it began in August, the planning and preparation for the Warsaw Uprising happened in July. It was a major World War II operation by the Polish resistance Home Army to liberate Warsaw from Nazi German occupation before the arrival of the Soviet Red Army. The uprising was ultimately suppressed by the Germans, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.

Poland - 1944 (July 22nd)

The Polish Committee of National Liberation (PKWN) was established in Lublin, marking the beginning of communist rule in Poland.

United States - 1947 (July 26th)

President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act, which established the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Department of Defense, and the National Security Council.

United States - 1969 (July 20th)

Apollo 11, the first manned mission to land on the Moon, successfully landed. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon.

United States - 1990 (July 26th)

President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law, prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

Poland - 2010 (July 4th)

Bronisław Komorowski was elected President of Poland following the tragic plane crash that killed President Lech Kaczyński in April of that year.

Poland - 2011 (July 1st)

Poland took over the rotating presidency of the European Union for the first time since joining the EU in 2004.

These events are only examples of events that mark crucial moments in U.S. and Polish history, shaping the identity, politics, and international relations of both countries, that occurred in the month of July.

The Officers & Directors of the PACCF wish you and your families a safe and HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!