This monograph provides concise information about important epochs, events, and structures, with particular attention given to the phenomena and processes that have shaped Polish society and statehood. It highlights the essential elements of our own and others' images of Polish history. Furthermore, the authors, all specialists in Eastern Europe, explore the interplay between Polish history and that of Europe, pointing out the contributions of non-Polish population groups to the history of this country, which is non-Polish in linguistic and cultural terms.