Korespondencja – źródłem do badań biograficznych (na przykładzie listów ks. dra Józefa Knosały)

Abstract

In biographical studies, various sources are used, among which the exchange of letters is of crucial signifi cance. It enables familiarisation with people and reveals many historical facts showing their complexity and ambiguity. This article is aimed at showing correspondence as a source in preparing the biography of Father Józef Knosała, Ph.D. (1878–1951).The research conducted involves the presentation of the correspondence (38 letters) addressed to Father Józef Knosała, Ph.D. between 1923 and 1938. These documents have provided a lot of information on Father Knosała’s relations with many Church dignitaries (Bishop August Hlond, Father Józef Gawlina), state officials (Michał Grażyński – the Silesian voivode), politicians (Wojciech Korfanty) and people interested in history. The analysis of this correspondence makes it possible to show Father Knosała as a great man, who was widely respected and appreciated due to his knowledge, historical studies and engagement in the religious and social life of Upper Silesia.