Kashubian in Poland

People Name:	Kashubian
Country:	Poland
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	251,000
World Population:	261,000
Primary Language:	Kashubian
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	90.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.40 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Slav, Western
Affinity Bloc:	Eurasian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Kashubian history began over 750 years ago. Theirs was a large duchy in the 13th century, but after this time came great troubles for Kashubian people. Germanization was a big problem. During the Second World War, many Kashubians died because of persecution and war. The collapse of communism in 1989 brought them freedom, but after this year much of Kashubians suffered from poverty and unemployment. This fact caused Kashubian emigration to Western countries.

Where Are they Located?

Most Kashubians live in Poland, in Central Europe near Baltic Sea and Gdańsk, but there are big groups of Kashubian immigrants in Canada, USA and Germany.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today many Kashubian people give up traditional lifestyle. After the collapse of communism, they started work more in private sector services and less in agriculture and fishery. Young Kashubian want to study in high schools and have good jobs, but very often they are limited especially in the villages. Today more than a half of people in Kashubia live in cities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Kashubians religious life is dominated by the Roman Catholic Church. The collapse of communism was a big cultural shock. Many Kashubians have a conservative worldview, often without good understanding of Bible. The great influence of relativism is observed by the younger generation. Some Kashubians are also influenced by materialism.

What Are Their Needs?

Problems in Kashubia are addictions and big number of divorces, which destroy family ties. Kashubians would like to have more Kashubian language in the Roman Catholic Church. People in Kashubia are often disappointed with traditional Catholic religion especially during Covid-19.