Jagiellonian University - for centuries, in times of prosperity and ruin, a refuge of knowledge, Polish culture, national tradition and history, was far from being politically unanimous at the outbreak of the First World War.

Lecturers, administration staff and students had varied visions concerning the future of Poland and actions necessary to win the long-awaited independence. The older generation of professors reacted to the political situation by choosing a moderate position and supporting the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. They were opposed by another, more nationalist option formed by the younger lecturers who were hostile towards the Austrian rule.

Ta różnorodność poglądów i przekonań prowadząca często do zaciekłych sporów, nie przeszkodziła uniwersytetowi w ważnych chwilach, wszelkimi możliwościami i siłami jednoczyć się w walce i wspieraniu działań zmierzających do najważniejszego celu - wolnego, niepodległego kraju oraz ochrony przed skutkami wojny własnych wykładowców, pracowników i studentów, a także mieszkańców Krakowa. Podczas czterech lat walk uczelnia wielokrotnie przeżywała ciężkie, dramatyczne momenty, dając zawsze dowody zjednoczenia i aktywnej działalności na rzecz kraju oraz uczelni, udzielając możliwej pomocy wszystkim potrzebującym.

This diversity of opinions and convictions often led to heated discussions but in crucial moments the University was united, using all possible means in the struggle for the most important goal - a free independent country and protection of its own lecturers, staff members and students, but also ordinary citizens of Cracow. During the four years of conflict, the University experienced many difficult, dramatic moments, always proving to be united and capable of active service to the country and the university, always providing assistance to those in need.

The outcome of the First World War was tragic for the Jagiellonian University.

Many students and junior professors died. University buildings were devastated and financial shortages were commonplace. Despite this, it was a period of joy, enthusiasm and hard labour for the liberated home country. The University has always been a proponent of the Polish cause. Remaining united around a single goal, it demonstrated extraordinary zeal. Many staff members and students were saved from certain death, Cracow citizens were protected from epidemics and poverty, University’s own property from pillaging. In the difficult post-war period with its challenges and plans, the University entered the interbellum which was to see many spectacular achievements.