The People's Republic of Poland was the official name of Poland from 1952 until 1989, during a period when the country was a communist state under the influence of the Soviet Union. This era was marked by state control over the economy and limited political freedoms, with the government promoting socialist ideals. In 1989, Poland transitioned to a democratic government, leading to the establishment of the Third Polish Republic. This change was part of a broader movement in Eastern Europe that saw the decline of communist regimes, paving the way for greater political and economic freedoms in the country.