Wojciech Jaruzelski

Date of Birth: July 6, 1923

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 25, 2014

Biography

Wojciech Witold Jaruzelski was a Polish military officer and communist politician who played a significant role in Poland’s political landscape during the latter half of the 20th century. Born on July 6, 1923, in Kurów, Poland, Jaruzelski was educated in the Soviet Union and joined the Polish People’s Army during World War II. He rose through the ranks to become a general and then entered politics, where he became a key figure in the Polish United Workers’ Party. Jaruzelski’s most controversial act was the imposition of martial law in Poland on December 13, 1981, in an attempt to crush the anti-communist Solidarity movement. He argued that this was necessary to prevent a Soviet invasion, though this action drew significant criticism both domestically and internationally. After the fall of communism, Jaruzelski stepped down from power and lived a relatively quiet life until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Wojciech Jaruzelski

1. Wojciech Jaruzelski was the last communist leader of Poland, serving as the head of state from 1981 until the transition to democracy in 1989.

2. He was also Poland’s Prime Minister from 1981 to 1985 and the country’s President from 1989 to 1990.

3. Jaruzelski was the architect of the Round Table Agreement in 1989, which led to semi-free elections and the eventual end of communist rule in Poland.

4. He was a recipient of the Order of the Builders of People’s Poland, one of the highest honors in communist Poland.

5. Despite his controversial role in Poland’s history, Jaruzelski received a state funeral, which was attended by several dignitaries and former political opponents.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Wojciech Jaruzelski

1. “Martial law was a lesser evil than a Soviet intervention.”

2. “I believed that I was acting for the good of the country.”

3. “History will judge me.”

4. “In the end, we are all Polish.”

5. “The choice was either to impose martial law ourselves or see the Soviets do it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Wojciech Jaruzelski’s net worth is not publicly documented, but as a state official in communist Poland, he did not accumulate significant personal wealth.