The Beginnings of Macierz Szkolna – the Association of Polish School Teachers in Lithuania: An Overview of the Issue

Abstract

Goal – The aim of this article is to present the beginnings of Macierz Szkolna and to discuss its main areas of activity in the interwar period (1918-1939) in the Vilnius Region. Research methodology – An archival and library search was conducted, and a review of the literature was performed. The article is based mainly on the preserved archival sources deposited in the archives of the Lithuanian Central State Archives. Score/results – The research findings reveal the essence of the Educational Society in the eastern territories and the role the organisation played in the Vilnius region. To operate effectively, the Educational Society carried out tasks such as educating children, establishing schools, conducting training courses, and assisting in the dissemination of education. Originality/value – Issues related to the activities of the Macierz Szkolna (School Society) in Poland are of interest to researchers, but not in the Vilnius region during the interwar period. This article is an attempt to take a closer look at the activities of the Macierz Szkolna – an organisation that contributed to reducing illiteracy levels in the Vilnius region.