Episode Details

Józef Piłsudski was a monumental Polish statesman and military leader who played a decisive role in restoring Poland’s sovereignty in 1918. After enduring Siberian exile and leading the Polish Socialist Party, he formed the Polish Legions to fight for independence during World War I. He served as the first Chief of State and Marshal of Poland, famously orchestrating the "Miracle at the Vistula" to defeat Soviet forces in 1920. Although he briefly retired from public life, he reclaimed authority through the 1926 May Coup, establishing the Sanation government and ruling as a de facto dictator until his death. Piłsudski is remembered for his vision of a multi-ethnic federation and remains a primary, though sometimes polarizing, architect of the modern Polish nation. These sources provide a comprehensive biography of his political evolution, military strategies, and enduring historical legacy.