Aprowizacja mieszkańców Krakowa w latach gospodarki wojennej i powojennej inflacji (1918–1923)

Abstract

After regaining independence, situation of the citizens of Cracow was frequently more difficult than during the war. Provisioning problems were caused by the ongoing fights and immense devastation. The authorities did their best to ensure efficient and all-encompassing provisioning. Unfortunately, the central government often left Cracow stranded. The mayor constantly asked for rations bit incomplete, deficient loads reached Cracow. The city struggled with financial problems and the government refused granting credits. People fought with profiteers who took advantage of market shortages and ran usurious businesses. People were disappointed with a bad policy of the government that could not handle provisioning problems. It is difficult to make an unbiased evaluation when analyzing the issue. The situation was critical. Contrary to the opinion of people, the authorities did everything they could to provision the inhabitants of Cracow. It was manifested by the activities of the City Provisioning company as well as of the Provisioning Office that bought products necessary for the inhabitants. The authorities opened shops for poor people and ensured cheap bread and fuel. They also tried to influence the situation in the city by means of legislative procedures. Transportation of commodity in short supply was prohibited. According to the inhabitants of Cracow, the help was insufficient. Dissatisfaction was manifested by more and more frequent rebellions and strikes. Queues in front of shops were changing into noisy manifestations, riots were taking place. Frequently, their course was dramatic as during the riots in November 1923.