Before World War II, Polish authorities sought additional funding for the army. A program of loans was established, with contributions provided by citizens. In Krakow, the Krakow Feelings Thermometer was created, symbolizing citizen patriotism.
Poland’s international situation in 1939 was uncertain. The Anschluss of Austria and the occupation of Czechoslovakia were clear evidence of Hitler’s expansionism. At the same time, the Soviet threat remained present, so the government relied on a policy of “equidistance from Moscow and Berlin.”
The Polish authorities were aware of the difficult situation and the disparity in military power between Poland and its potential enemies. Therefore, plans were developed that assumed the largest possible rearmament in a short time. However, any investment requires money, which Poland in the interwar period always lacked. The country, reborn after the Great War, constantly grappled with economic, financial, and social problems. Despite allocating most of its budget to armaments, these expenditures were still lower than those of its neighbors.
Throughout the interwar period, ways to obtain additional financing were sought. Finding external investors was very difficult, so the decision was made to appeal to the public and its feelings. In early 1939, an internal loan aimed at citizens was created. Supporting it became a manifestation of patriotism; everyone could contribute to building a strong, great Poland. Poles who sincerely loved the regained country joined the initiative en masse, and refusing support was perceived as betrayal and indifference, leading to social exclusion.
The profits from the loan exceeded the expectations of its creators.
The authorities of Krakow decided to illustrate the patriotism and generosity of its residents and encourage further support. To this end, they created Termometr Uczuć Krakowa (the Krakow Feelings Thermometer). Instead of degrees, the scale represented millions of złoty, and the “mercury column” indicated the amount of residents’ contributions. The value was recorded daily, filling residents with pride. The thermometer was placed in the Rynek Główny (Main Market Square), at the intersection with Szewska street, thanks to which every resident and visitor could see with their own eyes the scale of solidarity and helpfulness of society, because the initiative was supported not only by Poles but also by minorities, especially Jews. In difficult times, this built morale and patriotism.