Fortel Sztuczka: The Polish Magician Who Defied the Nazis

A Life of Magic and Resistance

Fortel Sztuczka, a Polish magician, was more than just an entertainer. He was a symbol of resistance against the Nazi occupation of Poland. Using the art of illusion, he smuggled weapons, messages, and people across the border. He also used his performances to raise money and morale for the Polish resistance movement.

Houdini of Poland

Born in Warsaw in 1885, Sztuczka began his career as a magician at the age of 15. He quickly became one of the leading magicians in Poland, and was known for his daring escapes and illusions. At the outset of World War II, Sztuczka was arrested by the Nazis, but quickly escaped. He then joined the Polish resistance movement and used his skills as a magician to aid the effort. One of Sztuczka's most famous tricks was the "Houdini Escape." He would be handcuffed and locked in a box, and then escape in minutes. He used this trick to smuggle weapons and messages across the border. Sztuczka also used his performances to raise money and morale for the resistance movement. He would often perform at secret gatherings, and would use his illusions to inspire hope in the hearts of those who were fighting against the Nazis. In 1944, Sztuczka was captured by the Nazis and sent to a concentration camp. He was executed in 1945, but his legacy continues to inspire people today.

A Symbol of Resistance

Fortel Sztuczka was a true hero of the Polish resistance movement. He used his skills as a magician to fight against the Nazis and to inspire hope in the hearts of his countrymen. He is a reminder of the power of the human spirit, and of the importance of fighting for what is right.