Społeczeństwo Bochni w okresie autonomii galicyjskiej (1867-1914). Zarys problematyki

Society of Bochnia in the period of the Galician Autonomy (1867-1914). Outline of the issues The period of the Galician autonomy 1867-1914 was favorable to the increase of social awareness in the society of Bochnia, as well as the increasing involvement of the inhabitants in the life of the town. One of the main factors which shaped the national character of the society was the introduction of the Polish language in 1867 in folk and high schools. Two years later, in 1869, the Polish language became the official language in administration and the judiciary. In the town celebrations took place, commemorating significant anniversaries in Polish history, but there were also some solemn moments proving loyalty to the Austrian emperor. The paper cross-sectionally presents selected issues relating to the society of Bochnia in the period of autonomy. It mentions pre-autonomy events that influenced the development of social awareness in the town during the period in question. Social attitudes are illustrated by descriptions of ceremonial events that took place at that time. In the town, there were a lot of changes that improved the life of its inhabitants. Particular chapters deal with the topics of maintaining order in the town, the importance of Bochnia’s cemetery, which became an important place of remembrance for society, and the presence of Jews in Bochnia. They testify to the planned activities, which were to bring numerable benefits to Bochnia and its inhabitants in the discussed period. Useful for assessment of social mentality are the fragments showing the intertwining of urban and rural features of the town’s inhabitants, which can be noticed also in the chapter about the impact of Cracow on the society of Bochnia. The outbreak of the war in 1914 marked the end of long decades of a peaceful life for the town and its inhabitants.