FILIP SANBRA KAHANE – A GREAT “SOKÓŁ” WHOSE LIFE IS A MODEL FOR MANY GENERATIONS

Abstract

The “Sokół” Gymnastic Society in Łańcut was established in 1891 at the instigation of the local intelligentsia strongly involved in social, cultural, educational, economic and political life. Filip Kahane is a person who stands out among the most active founders and social activists. This article indicates some factual data that became the starting point for an extensive description of activities and achievements, as well as the processes of shaping identity, creating a hierarchy of values and attitudes towards the world, people and his own homeland. The aim of this article is to give a detailed and reliable description of his life, the development of national identity, the interpretation of activities and achievements not only for the Łańcut “Sokół”, but also for the local community. It is also the unmasking of unverified information that has been reproduced for over a hundred years, as well as the facilitating of less known facts and materials. Reliable, authentic documents, which confirm the reliability of biographical data enriching the historical perspective, are the source of knowledge. Methods. The analysis of literature was conducted in the historical and territorial context in order to determine the circumstances of the occurrence of the discussed issue in the source literature in Galicia. The analysis of preserved notarial deeds from the 19th century, the perpetual book, original documents, letters, photographs, memories, and handwritten notes which are in the private archive of Filip Kahane’s descendants was carried out. Conclusions. Filip’s steadfast and heroic attitude during the uprising fights undoubtedly makes him the leading light in the canon of Polish heroes. He is a great patriot devoted to his homeland. Moreover, he is a feather in his cap and a role model, not only for contemporary residents of the town and the region, but above all for young Poles, young “falcons”. He proved repeatedly that his most important values are: God, Honor, Homeland. Thanks to his civic attitude, bravery and services to the country he endeared young people who joined the ranks of the Łańcut “Sokół”. Due to his personal commitment and social position, he significantly contributed to the inception of the Łańcut “nest“, the construction of “Sokolnia” and the garden that have served school and artisanal youth but also the inhabitants of Łańcut and surrounding localities for decades. From the very beginning “Sokolnia” served as a local center of sports, patriotic, socio-cultural and economic life.