Escapes Abroad and Other Forms of Illegal Emigration in the History of Opole Silesia. Part I. Years 1945–1955. Outline of the Issue in Light of Files of Civilian Security Services

Abstract

The region of Opole Silesia, and from 1950 the Opole Voivodeship (province), encompassed a vast majority of the newly formed Polish–Czechoslovakian borderland, shaped in consequence of World War II. This particular part of the state border was characterized by lack of significant natural barriers. This circumstance created favorable conditions for escape attempts from a country ruled by communists. Odra River, a communication “spine” of the region, also offered a chance of flight to the West.