Poland has a rich history of Jewish communities, dating back to the Middle Ages. By the 20th century, it was home to one of the largest Jewish populations in Europe, with vibrant cultural, religious, and social life. Cities like Warsaw and Kraków were centers of Jewish learning and tradition. The Holocaust during World War II devastated these communities, leading to the loss of millions of lives. Today, efforts are being made to preserve Jewish heritage in Poland, including the restoration of synagogues and the establishment of museums, such as the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.