Two Nations. One Legacy.

Celebrating the enduring bond between Poland and the United States—united by history, strengthened by shared values, and built on freedom.

Poland & America

Partnership Forged in Liberty.

The National Polish American Foundation is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing the historic and strategic bond between the people of Poland and the United States.

Our Mission is to foster Polish-American cooperation across culture, business, politics, education, and defense—building bridges between two nations that have stood together in the name of
liberty for over two centuries.

We also work to preserve and promote Polish-American heritage—honoring the contributions of generations of Polish immigrants and ensuring their legacy remains a living part of America’s national identity.

Legacy

Heroes Then. Leaders Now.

The foundation of Polish-American friendship was laid during the American Revolution, when two great Polish patriots—Tadeusz Kościuszko and Casimir Pulaski—volunteered to fight for American independence.

Today, over 9 million Polish-Americans contribute to every aspect of American life—government, science, arts, business, and sports. Their pride in heritage and commitment to freedom continues to shape the American story.

We actively support programs and events that celebrate Polish-American culture. From historical commemorations to cultural festivals and galas, we aim to connect communities and pass on the values of faith, family, freedom, and hard work.

History

History of Polish-American Relations

1777

Kościuszko Arrives in America

Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish engineer and patriot, joins the American Revolutionary War. His fortifications at the Battle of Saratoga lead to a major victory—turning the tide of the war. Kościuszko’s engineering brilliance was instrumental not only in Saratoga but also at West Point, where he designed critical fortifications. His belief in liberty extended beyond borders—he left a will calling for the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, reflecting his deep commitment to human rights.

1777

Pulaski Joins the Continental Army

General Casimir Pulaski is appointed by George Washington as head of American cavalry. He saves Washington’s life at the Battle of Brandywine and becomes a hero of both nations. He is honored as the 'Father of the American Cavalry’ for his leadership and reforms that shaped the U.S. cavalry’s structure and tactics. Pulaski’s courage, sacrifice, and tactical innovations have made him one of only eight people to be awarded honorary U.S. citizenship.

1794

The Kościuszko Uprising in Poland

After fighting for American liberty, Kościuszko returns to Poland to lead a failed but heroic uprising for national freedom—symbolizing the transatlantic fight for independence.

1914 - 1918

World War I and the Fight for Polish Independence

During World War I, the Polish-American community played a crucial role in advocating for the re-establishment of a free and independent Poland. Polish-American volunteers joined the newly formed 'Blue Army’—also known as Haller’s Army—trained in North America and deployed to Europe. President Woodrow Wilson’s 13th Point in his 1918 address called for an independent Polish state, heavily influenced by lobbying from Polish-Americans and statesman Ignacy Jan Paderewski.

1939 – 1945

World War II & the Polish Resistance

Despite being invaded by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, Polish soldiers fought alongside American and Allied forces in every major theater of war.

One of the most courageous acts came from Jan Karski, a courier of the Polish underground state, who risked his life to infiltrate the Warsaw Ghetto and Nazi concentration camps. In 1943, he traveled to Washington to meet with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and top U.S. officials, delivering the first-hand report on the Holocaust.

1978

Pope John Paul II Inspires the World

The election of a Polish pope transformed Eastern Europe. His message of faith and freedom strengthened the spirit of resistance behind the Iron Curtain and inspired generations of Polish-Americans. During his 1987 U.S. visit, Pope John Paul II met President Ronald Reagan in Miami. Their strategic and spiritual alliance was central in the fight against communism and for global freedom.

1980

Lech Wałęsa and the Solidarity Movement

Supported by American institutions and Polish-Americans, Wałęsa’s peaceful trade union challenged Soviet domination—sparking a revolution that would change Europe. In 1989, he became the first non-head of state to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress.

1981 – 1989

Kukliński & Cold War Espionage

Polish Colonel Ryszard Kukliński shared Warsaw Pact military secrets with the CIA—playing a crucial role in America’s Cold War strategy. His intelligence helped the United States understand and counteract Soviet military plans, including potential nuclear strike scenarios. Many believe Kukliński’s actions helped prevent a nuclear conflict.

1990

Operation Samum

In a bold act of intelligence cooperation, Polish agents helped evacuate CIA officers from Iraq ahead of the Gulf War—cementing Poland’s reputation as a trustworthy ally. Poland was the only country willing to take that risk when others refused, proving its extraordinary bravery and loyalty.

1999

Poland Joins NATO

With strong U.S. support, Poland became a full member of NATO—ensuring its security and anchoring it within the Western defense alliance.

2010s – Present

U.S. Troops and Missile Defense in Poland

The U.S. has significantly strengthened its military presence in Poland, including rotational forces and the establishment of the Aegis Ashore missile defense system in Redzikowo. This enhances NATO’s defense posture and affirms Poland’s frontline role in transatlantic security.

2019

Visa Waiver Program Approved

After years of close cooperation, Poland was admitted to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, allowing Polish citizens to travel to the U.S. without a visa—signifying high trust and partnership.

Contact

Let’s Work Together

National Polish American Foundation, 1500 K Street, Washington, DC 20005