The Polish National Anthem

is called 'Dąbrowski's Mazurka'. It is also known by its original title, 'Song of the Polish Legions in Italy' or 'Poland has not lost yet'.

General Jan Henryk Dąbrowski is regarded as a Polish national hero for his part in Tadeusz Kościuszko's rebellion against Russia in 1794. He later organized and commanded the Polish Legions in Napoleon's army.

Lyrics - Józef Wybicki - general Dąbrowski's close associate.

Music - composer unknown.

Polish National Anthem is lively folk dance with patriotic words written shortly after the country lost its independence in a series of partions by Austria, Russia and Prussia (1772, 1791, 1795). It was written in Reggio di Emilia (now Italy) on the occasion of the departure of the Polish Legions led by general Jan Henryk Dąbrowski to fight in the Napoleonic wars against Austria, Russia and Prussia (supporting the French dictator). After the failure of the final effort to save Poland during the Kościuszko Insurection in 1794 Poles scattered around Europe. Many of them emigrated to France to join the forces of Napoleon Bonaparte, with the hope that the valiant dictator would reestabilish Poland as an independent state.

It is because of this connection the current national anthem of Poland still contains a reference to Bonaparte and speaks of marching from Italy to Poland under the leadership of general Dąbrowski.

The mazurka expresses the idea that nation of Poland, despite of lack of political independence, had not perished as long as Polish people were still alive fighting in its name.

Sources: Dąbrowski's Mazurka, National Anthem of Poland by Maja Trochimczyk

Regulations:

The National Anthem should be performed or reproduced especially at celebrations of national holidays and anniversaries. Civilian should pay respect to the anthem by standing in a dignified manner (at attention), additionally man should uncover their heads.