ABSTRACT
The quantity of comparative analysis dealing with soldiers in politics has paralleled the ever increasing number of politicians in uniform to observe. The Polish military has a long and honored place in Polish history. The Polish nation survived. Indeed for many Poles, Poland embodies the “Christ of Nations” with a uniquely Polish mission and Polish martyrdom. The history of Polish Communism, like that of the Polish nation, has been burdened with misfortunes. Polish soldiers governed from 1918 until 1939, a precedent of indigenous Polish praetorianism in the 20th century that undoubtedly influences the attitude of Polish military and civilian élites as well as societal expectations. The penetration model assumes a single center of power committed to a shared ideology. It requires a united, institutionalized political organization; a high level of political development. Traditionally the Polish military enjoyed high esteem; Polish soldiers were seen as embodying national virtues of patriotism, honor, and bravery.
