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The introduction of martial law was the most dramatic decision I had ever taken. And life had treated me harshly. I experienced my country's tragedy in 1939.

— Wojciech Jaruzelski Speech at Kansas State University (1996)

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More quotes by Wojciech Jaruzelski

I think, however, that it is better when we solve the Polish matters realistically, with prudence, when we discuss them calmly, normally.

The self-preservation instinct of the nation must be heard. Adventurists must have their hands tied before they push the homeland into the abyss of fratricide.

Excerpts of Martial law speech (1981)

To make tomorrow better we must realize tough realities today, to understand the necessity for renunciation.

Excerpts of Martial law speech (1981)

Our soldier's hands are clean; he knows his hard service ... and has no other aim but the good of the nation.

Excerpts of Martial law speech (1981)

We are a sovereign country so we must get out from this crisis by ourselves. We must draw away danger with our own hands. History would never forgive the present generation for wasting this chance.

Excerpts of Martial law speech (1981)

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Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Wojciech Jaruzelski (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.