A history of the Fulbright Program in Poland, 1945–2025

To Build a Republic of Spirit embarks on a revealing journey into the heart of U.S.-Poland relations, unveiling the profound role of the Fulbright Program in shaping bilateral dealings through educational and scientific diplomacy. This meticulously researched narrative begins in 1959, exploring how this initiative transcended mere academic exchanges to become an important element in the Cold War’s political battleground. The narrative intertwines the development of American Studies in Poland, the rise of transnational academic networks, and the nuanced challenges of cross-cultural exchanges during and beyond the Cold War era. It sheds light on how the Fulbright Program was shaped by the complex interplay of U.S. and Communist cultural policies, contributing eventually to contemporary Poland’s unique pro-American stance. The book is not just a historical account; it’s an exploration of the enduring power and potential of educational initiatives in forging global understanding and cooperation.