Martial law in Poland was declared in December 1981, largely in response to the increasing unrest and the rise of the Solidarity movement, which advocated for workers' rights and political reforms. The imposition of martial law allowed the government to suppress dissent, detain activists, and severely curtail freedoms. During this period, many Poles faced imprisonment, and the state employed censorship and propaganda to manage public perception. The conflict between the government and opposition groups escalated, leading to widespread domestic and international criticism.

After nearly two years, on July 22, 1983, the government, under pressure from the public and international community, officially revoked martial law. General Wojciech Jaruzelski announced the decision, stating that the situation in Poland had significantly improved, and the time had come to restore civil liberties. The end of martial law allowed for the re-organization of trade unions, including Solidarity, and signaled the government’s intention to pursue dialogues with opposition leaders. The lifting of restrictions provided a spark for political mobilization and discussions about democratic reforms.

The revocation did not immediately resolve Poland's political turmoil, but it set the stage for future negotiations and was a critical step toward the eventual collapse of communist rule in Poland in 1989. This pivotal moment was seen as the beginning of a new political era, inspiring other nations in Eastern Europe to challenge their authoritarian regimes. The return of civil liberties invigorated civic participation and laid the groundwork for the eventual transition to democracy in the following decade.