the argument of images: historical representation in Solidarity underground postage, 1981–87

This article analyzes the symbolism of unofficial postage stamps minted by underground Solidarity cells in Poland under martial law. These stamps present a view of the history of Poland that is based in a sacrificial religious tradition, and they place Solidarity alongside other uprisings in that tradition. This historical representation not only counters the official history propounded by the Communist government but also portrays Solidarity as a unified mass movement in possession of the truth about Poland. In the 1980s, truth, and especially truth in language, became an important basis for political discourse and opposition in Poland. The claim to truth was significant in Solidarity's claim to authority. [ Poland, Solidarity, representation, linguistic alienation, historical consciousness ]