Testimonies of the “righteous era” in the resources of the State Archives in Piotrków Trybunalski

Although over 35 years have passed since the fall of the Polish People’s Republic, this era still evokes strong emotions in Polish society. Some recall it with nostalgia. However, the vast majority view it critically. The same applies to documentation produced during this period, particularly that of political and social parties and organizations. The State Archives in Piotrków Trybunalski hold the largest collection of records from the Polish United Workers’ Party (PZPR). In the collection of the PZPR Voivodeship Committee in Piotrków Trybunalski, the records of labor activists evoke strong emotions. During the communist era, they were held up as role models, yet today no one wants to remember them. In the holdings of the State Archives in Piotrków Trybunalski and its branch in Tomaszów Mazowiecki, memories and biographies of PPR activists, soldiers of the Guard, and the People’s Army evoke strong emotions. During the communist era, the 22nd of July and the 1st of May were celebrated with great pomp. The archives preserve numerous documents, posters, invitations, and photographs
from these commemorations. During this period, the heroism of Red Army soldiers was honored, and much emphasis was placed on promoting friendship with the Soviet Union. Posters, announcements, proclamations, and photographs of Red Army soldiers continue to stir emotions to this day. A dedicated archivist faces the difficult task of accurately presenting the history and testimonies of this era without risking promoting communism.