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The Formation of the Polish-French Alliance Post-World War I

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The main topic of the text is the Polish-French alliance formed after World War I to secure Poland's independence. It details the 1921 political and military treaties, the strengthening of the alliance through the Franco-Polish Warrant Agreement, and the challenges faced due to political instability and economic issues. The text also discusses the revival of the alliance in the 1930s in response to the growing threat from Nazi Germany.

The Formation of the Polish-French Alliance Post-World War I

Following the end of World War I, the European political landscape underwent significant changes, with new nation-states emerging from the ruins of empires. Poland, reestablished after more than a century of partitions, sought to secure its newfound independence against potential threats from neighboring countries. To this end, Poland pursued alliances with Western powers, most notably France. The Polish-French alliance was cemented during the Polish–Soviet War (1919-1921), with France providing substantial military support to Poland through the French Military Mission. This cooperation between the two nations set the stage for a series of treaties aimed at mutual defense, economic collaboration, and political cooperation.
Solemn ceremony in period hall with men in 1920s clothes around a reflective table, discussing documents under a crystal chandelier.

The 1921 Polish-French Treaties: Political and Military Dimensions

The foundation of the Polish-French alliance was formalized in Paris in February 1921, following discussions between Polish Chief of State Józef Piłsudski and French President Alexandre Millerand. The political treaty, signed on February 19, 1921, by Polish Foreign Minister Count Eustachy Sapieha and French Foreign Minister Aristide Briand, was established in the context of the Treaty of Riga, which ended the Polish–Soviet War. This treaty committed both nations to a shared foreign policy, the enhancement of bilateral economic ties, and mutual consultations on matters concerning Central and Eastern Europe. It also included a defensive clause, promising mutual assistance in case of an unprovoked attack on either country. The secret military convention, signed shortly thereafter, was aimed at potential aggression from Germany and the Soviet Union, and detailed France's obligations to support Poland, though it stopped short of requiring direct military intervention. The effectiveness of these agreements was contingent upon the ratification of an economic treaty, which was finalized on August 2, 1923.

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00

After ______ concluded, new nation-states appeared, including Poland, which had been divided for over a century.

World War I

01

The cooperation between Poland and France was particularly strengthened during the ______ from 1919 to 1921.

Polish–Soviet War

02

The ______ provided significant military support to Poland during the Polish–Soviet War.

French Military Mission

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