A historical European parallel between Spain and Poland. Reflections after two hundred years
Jan Kieniewicz
Faculty of “Artes Liberales”
University of Warsaw
ORCID: 0000-0002-3580-9112
Published: 22/12/2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31338/ahi.2023.2.6
ABSTRACT: In 1820, Joachim Lelewel, historian, geographer and political activist, gave a conference titled “Historical parallel of Spain and Poland in 16, 17 and 18th centuries”. For two hundred years, this text was a basis for Poles to make considerations, in which Spain was an element to show roads to restore independence. The didactical character of this small work assumes that there is a possibility not only to learn but also to improve one’s frame of mind. Poles in servitude, in difficulty and, as it seemed, in a desperate situation, were seeking solace, admonition and an example in comparison with Spain.
The article poses the question of whether a new form of parallelism is possible at the beginning of the 21st century, in which it will no longer be about consolation but inspiration. An attempt at such a juxtaposition of history is presented, based on the place and role of these two countries in the evolution and future of Europe.
KEYWORDS: transition, transformation, Europe, peripheries, borderlands, civilisation, Joachim Lelewel.
