Lech Walesa

Lech Walesa was born to Boleslaw and Feliksia Walesa in Popowo, a small village in the province of Pomerania.

Walesa starts his vocational education at a technical school, focusing on electrical engineering and mechanics.

Walesa graduates from a vocational technical school with a focus on electrical engineering and mechanics.

Walesa marries Danuta Golos, who will become his lifelong partner and support him through his political struggles.

Walesa begins working as an electrician at the Gdansk Shipyard, a position that will later place him at the center of labor movements.

Walesa becomes increasingly involved in underground labor movements, advocating for workers' rights and better conditions.

Walesa leads a shipyard strike that results in the formation of Solidarity, the first independent trade union in a Soviet bloc country.

Solidarity grows into a massive social movement, with Walesa as its charismatic leader, challenging the communist regime.

Walesa is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his non-violent struggle for human rights and democracy in Poland.

Walesa and his family are subjected to constant surveillance and harassment by the Polish secret police, the SB.

Walesa leads Solidarity in the Round Table Talks, which pave the way for semi-free elections and the beginning of democratic reforms.

Walesa is elected as the first President of Poland after the fall of communism, marking a new era of democracy.

Walesa loses his bid for re-election, stepping down from the presidency after a single term.

Walesa continues his work as an activist and public speaker, advocating for democracy and human rights worldwide.

At 80, Walesa remains a respected figure in Polish history, known for his pivotal role in the fall of communism and the rise of democracy.