Thaddeus Kosciuszko Statue, Philadelphia

The Thaddeus Kosciuszko Statue in Philadelphia, dedicated on July 3, 1979, symbolizes the enduring friendship and shared values between Poland and the United States. It honors General Thaddeus Kosciuszko, a Polish patriot and American Revolutionary War hero. The monument was presented as the official Bicentennial gift from Poland to the United States, in celebration of the 200th anniversary of American Independence.

Thaddeus Kosciuszko, born into a wealthy Polish family, received his early military education in Warsaw, followed by engineering studies in France. In 1777, he arrived in America, where he offered his expertise to the American colonists fighting for independence from British rule. Kosciuszko's contributions were pivotal, particularly in fortifying Philadelphia, securing a crucial victory at Saratoga, and designing the fortifications at West Point. Honored by Congress in 1783, he received citizenship, land, a pension, and the rank of Brigadier General before leaving for Europe in 1784.

Kosciuszko's dedication to freedom went beyond his American service. In 1789, he became a Major General in the Polish Army, leading the 1794 uprising against Russian control. Though captured and imprisoned in Saint Petersburg, he was released two years later. In 1797, he returned to the US, then settled in France to support Polish independence. He passed away in Switzerland, and his remains were moved to Cracow in 1818.

The monument in Philadelphia not only honors Kosciuszko's military and engineering feats but also celebrates his unwavering dedication to liberty and justice. His last residence in America, located at 301 Pine Street in Philadelphia, was declared a national memorial in 1976, further cementing his legacy in the fabric of American history and heritage.