Warsaw, Poland – Eighty-one years ago, on August 1, 1944, the Warsaw Uprising began, as the Polish military resistance organization, the Home Army (Armia Krajowa), launched a courageous battle against German occupation forces. The signal to initiate the uprising was a coded radio message: "It’s raining, it’s pouring." This pivotal event marked a desperate attempt by the Polish underground to liberate their capital before the arrival of Soviet forces.
The Uprising, the largest single military effort by any European resistance movement during World War II, lasted for 63 days. The Home Army, loyal to the Polish government-in-exile, aimed to secure Warsaw's independence from Nazi control. Despite their valiant efforts, the insurgents faced overwhelming German military superiority.
The human cost of the Uprising was immense. According to the tweet from Visegrád 24, and corroborated by historical accounts, more than 200,000 Poles lost their lives during the fighting. Following the suppression of the Uprising, German forces systematically destroyed approximately 90% of the city's buildings, expelling an estimated 500,000 residents and leaving Warsaw in ruins.
Each year, Poland observes the anniversary with solemn commemorations, particularly in Warsaw. At precisely 5:00 p.m., known as "W" Hour, sirens wail across the city, and residents pause in silence to honor the fallen. This annual tribute underscores the Uprising's enduring legacy as a symbol of Polish resilience, patriotism, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom against tyranny.
Official ceremonies, including those attended by the President and Mayor of Warsaw, pay tribute to the insurgents and civilian victims. The Warsaw Uprising Museum also organizes special events and exhibitions to ensure that the memory of this significant historical event and the sacrifices made are preserved for future generations. The Uprising remains a cornerstone of Poland's national memory, reflecting the high cost of resistance and the indomitable spirit of the Polish people.