Lithuania and Poland through the ages

Lithuania and Poland have been connected through the centuries not only by their geography but also their history and culture; their mutual relations have been closer than their connections with other neighbours. This essay attempts to discuss in general terms what has joined these two states and societies together, and what separated them and for what reasons between the thirteenth and twentyfirst centuries. First of all attention is focussed on historical facts which led to the development of mutual trust between the two societies, on how tolerance and mutual respect grew with regard to their national identity and historical memory and what opportunities were gained for protecting national minorities. We also note and explain episodes in the development of relations between the two countries which have had, and continue to have a certain negative significance.