Independent Self-Governing Trade Union "Solidarity". The trade union formed in August-September 1980 on the wave of public discontent with the deteriorating economic situation of society and the way the exercise of power by communist governments. The strikes began in July 1980 in the Lublin region, continued in August on the coast, developed into nationwide protests. The motion also operate smaller organizations, such as: Independent Self-Governing Trade Union of Individual Farmers' Solidarity Development Association ", and since March 1981 Independent Self-Governing Trade Union of Individual Farmers' Solidarity 'and the Independent Self-Governing Trade Union of Individual Craft" Solidarity "

September 17, 1980 at a meeting of representatives of the strike committees and foundation set up in Gdansk Solidarity and the National Coordinating Commission of the chairman of L. Walesa. September 22 passed the statute therefore, Oct. 24 made its initial registration in the regional court in Warsaw. Finally, the statutes were registered on Nov. 10, 1980. At the time of registration of the Union had about 10 million members (80% of employees). Supreme authority was the Congress of Delegates, the executive held the National Coordinating Commission (KKP, from September 1981 the National Commission - KK) based in Gdansk. The compound has adopted a regional structure (38 regions and two districts).