From Friendship to War: The First Slovak Republic and the Second Polish Republic (March – September 1939)

The purpose of the article is characterization of bilateral Slovak-Polish relations from the creation of the Slovak State to the liquidation of II Polish Republic. The methodological basis of the research is the principles of historicism, objectivity and systematicity. Problem-chronological and comparative methods were used the most widely. The scientific novelty of the publication is determined by the absence of research works in Ukrainian historiography that would shed light on this theme. Conclusions. Slovak–Polish relations, for the first time in the two nations history, reached the level of interstate relations during the period from March to September 1939. The Second Polish Republic immediately recognized the independence of the Slovak State and established full diplomatic relations with it. Negotiations on economic cooperation took place between the countries in April–May and four agreements were signed, including a trade agreement. A positive atmosphere was observed in the international cultural dialogue (literature, theater). Solemn liturgies were held in the Jesuit Church of Bratislava on the occasion of Polish national holidays. L. Satmary, the Slovak representative in Warsaw, has developed the vigorous activity, aimed at establishing friendly relations between the states. The general political situation in Central and Eastern Europe at that time played a negative role in bilateral relations. Slovakia immediately became a de facto protectorate of Nazi Germany. Suspicion and uncertainty were introduced into Slovak–Polish relations by the intrigues of German diplomacy, which used the Slovak question as a temptation in its negotiations with the Warsaw government regarding the disputed territories. Whereas German–Polish relations deteriorated, the Poles increasingly saw Slovakia as a danger, because German troops were stationed on Slovak territory with the prospect of using it as a springboard for an attack on Poland. Therefore, in order to counteract Germany, the Poles tried to establish contacts with Slovak politicians and the military leaders, developed espionage activities, and allowed the formation of the Czechoslovak Legion. In June–August, under pressure from Berlin, Slovak–Polish relations began to steadily deteriorate. A mutual negative propaganda campaign was launched. The Slovaks put forward demands for Poland to return the disputed border territories. Ultimately, the army of the First Slovak Republic became an ally of the Wehrmacht in the attack on Poland. The Second Polish Republic ceased to exist and so a short period of Slovak–Polish interstate relations was interrupted.