patriotyzmu

Patriotyzm, known in Polish as "patriotyzm" and often used in contexts such as "patriotyzmu" in its genitive form, refers to the love and support for one's country and its culture, values, and identity. It is a civic form of allegiance that may include a sense of duty and pride, but it is distinct from nationalism, which can sometimes carry exclusionary or aggressive connotations.

The term derives from the Greek roots "patēr" (father) and "tēriō" (to possess), suggesting a connection to the idea of a "fatherland." In Poland, the concept of patriotyzm has deep historical roots. It became especially important during periods of partitions in the 18th and 19th centuries when Polish territories were divided between Russia, Prussia, and Austria. Polish patriots organized underground movements, wrote national literature, and cultivated a shared identity that ultimately fostered independence moves in 1918 and beyond.

In contemporary Poland, patriotyzm is observed in various civic activities such as participation in public events, support for national sports teams, and the celebration of national holidays. Politicians often invoke patriotyzm in speeches, but its interpretation can vary across the political spectrum. The term is widely taught in schools, featured in media coverage, and used in public discourse to denote an individual's connection to Polish heritage while maintaining a generally inclusive stance towards diversity within national boundaries.