The Polish parliament, known as the Sejm, has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Its origins can be traced to the Kingdom of Poland's medieval assemblies, which gradually evolved into a bicameral system. The Sejm underwent various changes in its structure and powers over the centuries, adapting to different political systems and historical events, including partitions, foreign occupations, and transformations in Poland's governance.
Notably, the Sejm played a crucial role in Poland's history, serving as a forum for political debate, passing laws, electing kings, and representing the interests of different regions and social groups within the country. The system experienced alterations under different ruling powers, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and later during partitions when Poland was not an independent state.
In the modern era, following the fall of communism in 1989, Poland established a unicameral parliament, the National Assembly, consisting of the Sejm (lower house) and the Senate (upper house), continuing the Sejm's legacy as a key institution in Polish governance.