Casimir Pulaski was a Polish-born patriot who went on to fight in the American Revolutionary War, becoming a volunteer on General George Washington’s staff and fighting in several high-profile battles. His successes on the battlefield led Washington to convince Congress to appoint Pulaski the head of the cavalry, a recently established division.

With its large Polish population, Illinois honored Pulaski in the 1980s, designating the first Monday in March as “Casimir Pulaski Day.” Though the state has made the holiday optional for school districts, many still celebrate the holiday and remember the war hero who meant so much to Illinois’ large Polish-American population.

Learn more:
Casimir Pulaski
The Polish Museum of America