Edward Gierek
Edward Gierek (Polish pronunciation: [ˈɛdvart ˈɡʲɛrɛk]; 6 January 1913 – 29 July 2001)[1] was a Polish communist politician.
Edward Gierek | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 4th First Secretary of the Polish United Workers' Party | |
| In office 20 December 1970 – 5 September 1980 | |
| Preceded by | Władysław Gomułka |
| Succeeded by | Stanisław Kania |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 6 January 1913 Porąbka, Piotrków Governorate, Congress Poland (the Russian Empire) |
| Died | 29 July 2001 (aged 88) Cieszyn, Silesian Voivodeship, Poland |
| Nationality | Polish |
| Political party | Polish United Workers' Party |
| Spouse(s) | Stanisława née Jędrusik (1918–2007) |
Gierek is known for opening communist Poland to Western influence. He made economic changes. For a time these changes helped Poland's economy stabilize. He modernized industry and increased access to products. Later the 1973 oil crisis made prices increase. Poland had many foreign debts. There were several revolts because of the economy. The Polish people were unhappy with Gierek and he was removed from power.[2]
Edward Gierek Media
Gierek and his wife contribute to Party Volunteer Labor Day
First Secretary Edward Gierek (second from left)
Gierek participated in hundreds of field trips and visitations, meeting ordinary people and seeking their feedback
Katowice Steelworks, Gierek's major industrial project
1973 Polish Fiat 126p, nicknamed maluch (tiny)
Edward Gierek personally made the official opening of the new Warszawa Centralna railway station on 5 December 1975.
Gierek with President Jimmy Carter of the USA in December 1977.
1976 food ration card
Gierek with East German leader Erich Honecker
Grave of Edward and Stanisława Gierek in Sosnowiec
References
- ↑ "Edward Gierek". The Independent. 11 April 2014. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/obituaries/edward-gierek-9253129.html. Retrieved 28 July 2021.
- ↑ McFadden, Robert (30 July 2001). "Edward Gierek Dies at 88; Polish Communist Reformer". Retrieved 19 September 2016.