Beyond Catalonia is a documentary series that attempts to explain some of the main independence movements in Europe, and some of the lesser-known ones. This episode focuses on Silesia. Living on the borders is never easy. Since the 18th century, Silesia has been part of Prussia, the German Empire, then split into pieces and one became part of the Second Polish Republic, then invaded by the Nazis and finally returned to Poland, where it remains almost entirely today, with small parts in the Czech Republic and Germany.

The Nazis considered Silesia essential for industrial purposes and pursued policies aimed at Germanization, including the suppression of Silesian identity and culture. After the war, Silesians were caught up in a tumultuous storm of suspicion and accusation, often branded as Germans or sympathizers of the former regime. Communities were torn apart, as individuals faced the harsh realities of ostracism, detention, and even forced displacement. Despite historic unrest, more than 800,000 people claimed a Silesian identity and there is a growing movement advocating autonomy and seeing Silesia as one nation rather than a region made up of Poles, Czechs or Germans.

Check out the other episodes below!