Kościuszko's proclamation

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Kościuszko's proclamation refers to a speech given by Tadeusz Kościuszko in Kraków on March 24, 1794. The speech is considered the starting point of the Kościuszko's Uprising against the forces of Imperial Russia occupying Poland.

Around 10 o'clock the crowd gathered at the Old Town square in Kraków was addressed by various politicians, who read the proclamation of the uprising. The document gave Tadeusz Kościuszko dictatorial powers and command over the National Armed Force (Polish: Siła Zbrojna Narodowa). Soon afterwards Kościuszko himself appeared at the spot and recited his oath:

I, Tadeusz Kościuszko, hereby swear by the God to the entire Polish Nation, that I shall not use the powers vested in me for anyone's oppression, but for defence of the integrity of the borders, recuperation of Nation's sovereignty and strengthening the universal freedom. So help me God and the innocent passion of His Son

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