“Recovered Territories” through the lens of the Polish Film Chronicle – the image of the Polish Western and Northern lands in state propaganda in 1945–1948

Abstract

The “Recovered Territories” had an immense significance in communist propaganda, with the authorities aiming to mold a distinct image of these regions through diverse media forms. The Polish Film Chronicle (PFC – i.e., newsreel) played a pivotal role in this endeavor. This article analyzes communist propaganda in PFC films from 1945 to 1948. Through quantitative and qualitative analysis and content and image examination, it scrutinizes the images and slogans employed in conveying message, the created image, and the propaganda tools used to shape the perception and help the postwar Polish society to “get used” to new Polish territories and perceive them positively.