The history of Poland is complex and convoluted...An amazing story shaped by those inside and outside of Poland -- and those with Poland's best and worst interests at heart. Western Europeans and North Americans have, for the most part, received a disorganized story shaped partially by the real events, but one also framed by various conquerors, suitors, allies, enemies, the well-intentioned, and the truly evil at heart...with a little myth and pure B.S. thrown in for good measure. Many readers, for example, will discover that the events in and about Poland leading up to and through WWII did not really come about as we were taught in school. Centuries ago Poland set out down a path of more representative forms of government -- another historical context we typically don't hear about.
There is no way that a book of barely 300 pages can deliver a comprehensive study of (in the words of historian Norman Davies) "God's Playground". But this volume does a good job of providing historical context for both visitors and the geographically/politically curious. Author Radzilowski may seem to run through the centuries at a fast clip -- and at first I was wondering if his bullet point facts would end up being just a part of some historical list. But as you read along you come to the understanding that he is plotting out a trend line for you to follow. Maybe you can remember all the Polish monarchs and their external allies and foes...I'm not that good at names, dates, and battles. But you should be pleased to come away with a better formed generalized understanding of the country and its people.
I have been extremely fortunate the past few years to have "acquired" some wonderful Polish friends and colleagues. This has fueled my curiosity about Poland, and lead to my first trip there last year. I'm planning a second trip soon, and this book, along with several books on more contemporary Polish history and events, has been a real asset.
I give the book five stars not because it is the best history of Poland, but because it accomplishes precisely what it sets out to do.
In the back of the book there is a nice historical chronology, a listing of Polish rulers, a list of English language sources for Polish history, and a historical gazetteer.
The book ends on this note: "The Polish people have taken everything fate has to throw at them, including the worst crimes of fascism and communism, and have not succumbed. Though its position in the world is not certain, Poland is no longer a plaything of the great powers. Poles earned the right to govern themselves and make their own mistakes and at last to write their own history."
Enjoy!