Gabriel Narutowicz Becomes First President of Poland

December 9th, 1922

December 9th, 1922

Gabriel Narutowicz Becomes First President of Poland
How Long Ago?

102 years, 3 months, 6 days ago

Location

Warsaw, Poland

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Władysław Grabski
  • Gabriel Narutowicz
  • Marek Twardowski
Links & References
Tags

Gabriel Narutowicz Becomes First President of Poland

Gabriel Narutowicz was elected as the first president of Poland following its independence. The election took place on December 9, 1922, in Warsaw, where members of the National Assembly voted to fill the position. Narutowicz, a prominent figure from the Polish People's Party, gained significant support from various political factions. His election marked a significant moment in Poland's democratic progress after World War I and the country’s re-establishment as a sovereign state.

Narutowicz was elected by the National Assembly.

He was Poland's first democratically elected president.

His presidency lasted just a few days.

He was assassinated shortly after taking office.

What Happened?

Gabriel Narutowicz was elected as the first president of Poland on December 9, 1922. Following World War I, Poland regained its independence in 1918 after over a century of partitions by Prussia, Russia, and Austria. The transitional government established a parliamentary democracy, emphasizing the need for a stable leadership to guide the country through its reconstruction. Narutowicz, a trained engineer and a respected politician, emerged as a candidate during a politically tumultuous period in the newly independent nation. He had previously served in various governmental capacities, including as Minister of Public Works.

The election process took place in the National Assembly in Warsaw, where members voted by secret ballot. Gabriel Narutowicz was endorsed by an unlikely coalition of left-wing and socialist factions, reflecting a complex political landscape in Poland at the time. His election was significant as it symbolized a new beginning for Polish democracy, and he became the first person to hold the presidency in a country that had just regained its statehood. Narutowicz's presidency signified an effort to unify the diverse political spectrum and tackle the pressing economic and social issues that faced Poland.

However, Narutowicz's presidency was challenged by rising nationalist sentiments and political polarization. Just days after his inauguration, he faced violent opposition from nationalist groups, reflecting the tense political climate of the period. His tenure lasted only a few days, concluding with his assassination on December 16, 1922. Despite his short time in office, Narutowicz's election marked a pivotal moment in Polish history and initiated discussions around governance, representation, and national identity in a newly independent Poland.

Why Does it Matter?

Gabriel Narutowicz's election as the first president of Poland is interesting because it represents the struggle for democracy in a nation rebuilding after a long period of division and suppression. His presidency, though brief, was pivotal in shaping the conversation around Polish national identity and governance in the interwar period. Narutowicz's election and subsequent assassination spotlighted the underlying tensions in Polish society, foreshadowing the political challenges that would come with the rise of extremism in Europe during this era.

Discover More Historic Events from December 9th

Accidents & Tragedies

Truck Overturns with Migrants in Chiapas

December 9th, 2021 3 years ago

A truck carrying 160 migrants from Central America overturned in Chiapas, Mexico, resulting in the deaths of fifty-five individuals and injuring over one hundred others. This tragic incident highlights the danger faced by migrants traveling through Mexico in search of a better life. Many of the victims were seeking refuge from violence and poverty in their home countries. Emergency services responded to the scene to assist the injured and transport them to nearby hospitals for urgent care.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Whakaari / White Island Eruption Kills 22

December 9th, 2019 5 years ago

Whakaari / White Island, an active stratovolcano in New Zealand, erupted while 47 people were on the island. The disaster unleashed a violent ash plume, affecting local and foreign tourists. Emergency services struggled with rescue efforts due to ongoing volcanic activity. Authorities confirmed 22 fatalities shortly after the eruption, with many others hospitalized with severe injuries. The event raised significant concerns over the safety of tourism in volcanic regions.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Australia Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage

December 9th, 2017 7 years ago

The Marriage Amendment Bill was signed into law, allowing same-sex couples in Australia to marry. This significant change followed a nationwide postal survey in which a majority of Australians supported the legalization of same-sex marriage. The bill's passage concluded a long struggle for marriage equality led by LGBTQ+ activists and supporters who had pushed for legal recognition and rights for same-sex couples. The legislation was celebrated across the country and marked a milestone in the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Suicide Bombings in Madagali Market Shatter Lives

December 9th, 2016 8 years ago

Two schoolgirl suicide bombers targeted a crowded market in Madagali, Adamawa, causing significant casualties. The blasts killed at least 57 people and injured 177 others. Authorities suspect the attackers were associated with Boko Haram, a militant group known for using young individuals in their attacks. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in areas affected by insurgency. This attack represents one of the many assaults on civilians in the region.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Park Geun-hye Impeached in Political Scandal

December 9th, 2016 8 years ago

President Park Geun-hye of South Korea was impeached by the National Assembly following a major political scandal involving allegations of corruption and abuse of power. The scandal centered around Park's close confidante, Choi Soon-sil, who was accused of manipulating state affairs and colluding in the extortion of funds from businesses. The impeachment was the culmination of widespread protests and public discontent, leading lawmakers to call for accountability. The vote resulted in a significant political shift in South Korea's leadership landscape.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Fatal Train Accident Near Bintaro, Indonesia

December 9th, 2013 11 years ago

A train accident near Bintaro, Indonesia, resulted in at least seven fatalities and over 63 injuries when a passenger train collided with a car crossing the railway. The collision occurred during the early morning when visibility was poor due to heavy rain. Emergency services responded swiftly, transporting victims to nearby hospitals for treatment. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as passengers struggled to evacuate from derailed carriages. Investigations into the cause of the accident began immediately, focusing on possible safety protocol violations at the railway crossing.

Continue Reading