Polish anthem turns 220

Sławek Szefs reports that “Poland has not yet perished,” the English translation of its Polish incipit, are words that have kept alive the hopes of many Poles during the turbulent and tragic periods of the nation’s history.

“This song became one of the most important symbols for Poles, alongside the white and red national colours and the crowned eagle in the coat of arms,” said Maria Koc, deputy speaker of the Polish Senate, during ceremonies in the town of Reggio Emilia, in northern Italy, where the song was penned.