What Is Martial Law?

By jamie

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8. Poland 1981

Martial law was imposed in Poland by the Polish People’s Republic government between December 13, 1981, and July 2, 1983. At the time, the government was facing increasing resistance from opposing groups, particularly the trade union solidarity group that saw growing numbers because of failing government policies.

The imposition of martial law meant that the government’s most powerful opponents could be arrested and thrown into prison without even being charged. It is thought that thousands were thrown into prisons, while as many as 91 were killed. Many of the activists remained in jail until 1986, despite martial law being lifted in 1983.

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