DIVIDED LOYALTY: Britain's Polish Ally During World War II

1-214350

At the outbreak of WWI, Poland was a quasi-military state undergoing rapid political and social change. Nevertheless, Britain signed an agreement with the country as part of its decision to adopt a policy of encircling Germany - a resolution requiring an ally in the East.

On the collapse of Poland in October 1939, the country's political opposition executed a coup against the Polish Government and formed a new administration, which was recognized by the Allies as the Polish Government in Exile. This regime change precipitated a feud between the supporters of the new and old governments, which lasted throughout the war.

In 1945, the British removed their recognition of the exiled government - now based in London - to pave the way for the Soviet Union to impose a communist administration in Poland.