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#OTD20 | 02 October 1944

Warsaw Uprising: Bravery, Resistance, and Heartbreaking Loss

October 2, 1944: After 63 intense days of resistance against the German occupiers, Polish fighters in Warsaw capitulate.

The Warsaw Uprising remains a poignant testament to the indomitable spirit of the Polish people. Seeking to liberate their homeland from the oppressive grip of Nazi Germany, the resistance fighters waged a valiant struggle, lighting the beacon of hope for their compatriots.

Despite their incredible courage and sacrifice, the odds were against them. With limited resources and facing a formidable enemy, the brave Polish fighters faced overwhelming challenges.

In the aftermath, the devastation of Warsaw was nearly complete, and the human cost staggering. 16,000 are killed, 23,000 more wounded. The entire civilian population is expelled, many are sent to work camps or concentration camps.

Today, we remember the resilience, valor, and sacrifice of those who stood up against oppression and fought for the freedom of their homeland.

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Additional Resources

Access more information from Media Rich Learning and curated off-site sources.

U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum

Read an account of the Warsaw Uprising at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Wikipedia

Read an excellent overview of the Warsaw Uprising on Wikipedia.

National World War II Museum

Read "The People’s War: Women, Children, and Civilians in the 1944 Warsaw Uprising" at the website of the National World War II Museum.

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