3-068-943 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Kosciuszko's Oath, 1818. Kosciuszko's oath on the Kraków Market Square, after the announcement of the beginning of insurrection on 24 March 1794. The Kosciuszko Uprising was a rebellion in 1794, led by Tadeusz Kosciuszko, against foreign domination in Poland. This revolt aimed to free Poland from Russian and Prussian control. Kosciuszko, a national hero, rallied peasants and soldiers alike, promising freedom and equality. Despite initial successes, the rebellion ultimately failed, leading to the third partition of Poland. However, the spirit of the uprising inspired future generations in their quest for independence.