Poles in Illinois: A Brief Historical Outline

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Published: Dec 20, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18290/sp2243.8s
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Keywords:
Poles in Illinois, American Polonia, Poles in Chicago, Polish National Alliance PNA, Polish Roman Catholic Union of America PRCUA

Main Article Content

John Radzilowski
University of Alaska, USA

Abstract

This article presents an outline history of the Polish community in Illinois from the 19th century to the present day. It describes and characterises the various waves of immigration of Poles to this state, during which the Polish community consolidated, Polish organisations were established (Polish Roman Catholic Union, Polish National Alliance, Polish Women’s Alliance) and their integration with the American society unfolded. The main physical and spiritual centres of support were the parishes. The article also presents the activity of the Polish community in Illinois in modern times, its reactions to events in Poland in the 20th century and its current perception of Polish culture.

Article Details

Issue
Vol 43 No Specjalny (2022)
Section
Articles
Author Biography

John Radzilowski, University of Alaska, USA

John Radzilowski, Ph.D. is director of the Polish Institute of Culture and Research at Orchard Lake, Michigan, and Professor of History at the University of Alaska

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