#ZoomOnHistory: A Controlled Friendship: Polish-Czechoslovak Relations, 1969–1989

The Pomeranian Library and the Polish Historical Society – Szczecin Branch invite you to the next event in the #ZoomNaHistorię series. A discussion with Dr. Anna Szczepańska-Dudziak, Professor at the University of Szczecin (Historical Institute of the University of Szczecin), on her latest book, "Polish-Czechoslovak Relations 1969–1989. From ‘Normalization’ to the Velvet Revolution," will be moderated by Dr. Eryk Krasucki, professor at the University of Szczecin and historian at the University of Szczecin’s Institute of History. In it, the author analyzes Polish-Czechoslovak relations in the years 1969–1989, revealing the mechanisms governing relations between Eastern Bloc states—from the period of so-called normalization to the events of the Velvet Revolution. During the discussion, Anna Szczepańska-Dudziak will talk about the behind-the-scenes aspects of political cooperation, diplomatic and consular activities, as well as cultural and academic contacts between Poland and Czechoslovakia. Particular attention will be devoted to tensions, limited trust, and the role of state institutions in maintaining relations between the two countries. The meeting will also be an opportunity to reflect on the mutual perceptions of Poles and Czechs and on the stereotypes that exist in relations between the two communities. Anna Szczepańska-Dudziak, Ph.D., Prof. at the University of Szczecin — a historian at the Institute of History at the University of Szczecin, specializing in international relations, diplomacy, and Polish-Czechoslovak relations.