FROM THE HISTORY OF NATURAL DISASTERS IN POLAND. THE FIRE IN THE TOWN OF PRZEWORSK ON THE NIGHT OF APRIL 25–26, 1930, AND ITS CONSEQUENCES FOR THE JEWISH POPULATION

This article is a case study that addresses disasters in Poland, focusing on their impact on the Jewish population. It examines the circumstances surrounding a fire that occurred at the end of April 1930 in the small town of Przeworsk, which at the time was also the seat of Przeworsk County. The article highlights the tragedy experienced by the Jewish residents living in the part of the town affected by the fire. The authors assess the preparedness of the town’s fire brigade to protect both property and lives in the event of such a disaster, as well as the condition of the Jewish population in that area before the fire. They analyze the rescue efforts for both people and property, the scale and consequences of the fire, and the efforts made to provide material aid to the victims. These efforts were organized by committees established for this purpose, municipal authorities, and the broader community, predominantly Jewish. The article also demonstrates the important role the media (in this case, the contemporary press) played in informing the public about disasters and mobilizing support for relief efforts.