Poland overview

Poland (or officialy Republic of Poland) is a country in Central Europe. Borded by Germany to the west, Ukraine to the east, Russian exclave to the north and bunch of lesser countries. It has a population of over 38 million people and total area of 312,679 square kilometres (120,726 sq miles). It's similar size to Italy, Norway or Germany.
Till 1989 Poland was basically controlled by Soviet Union. Most famous Poles are Pope John Paul II, Nicolaus Copernicus or Maria Sklodowska Curie. Enough of "school" information.

Now let's try to paint a picture of what kind of country Poland is.

Drinking alcohol is common in Poland. Very common. Some of people are even drinking at work. According to official statistics 40% of people were at least once hungover at work. 21% are hungover on regular bases.
This is quite understandable considering that minimal monthly wage in Poland is 1500zl (340 euro or 422 USD/month. Weekly it's 85euro or 105USD). And of course that's before taxes. This let's you buy 3 pairs of good shoes. Or two if you choose to pay the taxes. For your paycheck you can get 4 full tanks of gas for average car or get half of laptop.
Polish roads are well-known for it's bad shape and it is even possible to lose a wheel if you drive too fast.
People with college degree often have to work in supermarkets or in chains like McDonalds due to poor job market. Most of them know at least 1 or 2 foreing languages. At the same time our main politicians can speak only Polish. And some of them poorly.

Politicians are incompetent and embarassing. Basically they try to get votes by trashing their opponents. They also lie and never take responsibility for anything. EVER.
Out health care is free but usually you have to wait 3 or 4 months for you appointment. Unless it is life-threatening.

This shall give you general idea about Poland and it can help you understand upcoming histories that will be posted here.