Poland

Population: 38,633,912 (July 2001 est.)

Languages: Polish

Background: Poland gained its independence in 1918 only to be overrun by Germany and the Soviet Union in World War II. It became a Soviet satellite country following the war, but one that was comparatively tolerant and progressive. Labor turmoil in 1980 led to...

Currency: Polish Zloty (PLN, PLN (2.79 = US$1))

Data from CIA World Factbook. Click on CIA link for more. Click on map or flag for larger images.