The concepts of ‘belonging’ in the Vilnius Region and culture of discussions at the sessions of the Sejm of Vilnius 4th of February – 1st of March 1922
Keywords:
Vilnius, Vilnius region, National Democracy fraction, Sejm of Vilnius 1922, culture of political discussion, doctrines of interwarAbstract
The question of ‘belonging’ in the Vilnius Region became a significant problem in Polish – Lithuanian relations following World War I. The Polish population of this region spontanously expressed its will to join the reborn Polish state. It was treated by them as a natural historical consequence and as an example of the tradition and the work and goals of previous generations. In the elections of January 8th 1922, this will was formally expressed. It was confirmed by the proceedings of the elected Sejm, which was dominated by the Polish National Democracy fraction (aka the Polish Central Elections’ Committee). Minutes of the sessions of the Sejm show that different concepts for the future of the Vilnius Region were presented. Discussions were of a highly emotional character with MPs using arguments in personam. Similarly, accusations were vented about past events. However, the debate was meritous and demonstrated sound political argument. The debate in the Sejm of the Vilnius Region ended on Feb. 20th 1922, when the act on joining the Polish state was passed, along with some additional declarations regarding its execution.
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