The idea of creating the Wielkopolska National Park – reflections after reading old publications

Abstract

The article presents lesser-known, and sometimes even completely forgotten facts, documents, and publications related to publications concerning national parks, as well as the establishment of the Wielkopolska National Park. They illustrate the connections between nature conservation and history, administrative actions, politics, culture, and the economy. Knowledge of these connections is an important element in achieving the statutory goals of nature conservation through educational, informational, and promotional activities in the field of nature protection. The presented materials showcase the space, nature, culture, and people who regarded their organizational and authorship activities as a kind of mission, leaving a lasting mark in the national and global cultural sphere. They created the intellectual foundations for modern nature conservation, including the establishment of national parks, which also influenced the building of national identity. The first Polish nature conservation law from 1934 initiated in our country a comprehensive process of protecting both non-living and living natural resources, which continues to this day. On the 90th anniversary of its enactment, the Polish parliament (the Sejm) expressed recognition for all those involved in nature conservation, regarded not only as a patriotic duty but also as a necessity for the well-being of all species on Earth.