Emil Szramek was a Polish Catholic priest, historian, and author who lived from 1887 to 1942. After studying at the University of Wrocław, he served his community and contributed to regional history. During the Second World War, he was imprisoned by the Nazi regime and eventually died in the Dachau concentration camp. He is recognized as one of the 108 martyrs of the Second World War who were beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1999.
Life and work
Born in Tworków, Szramek pursued higher education at the University of Wrocław. Throughout his career, he worked as a priest and a researcher of regional history. For his various contributions, he received the Golden Cross of Merit in 1927 and the Silver Academic Laurel in 1935. His life ended during the wartime occupation in the Dachau concentration camp.
Veneration
The Catholic Church honors him as a blessed martyr. He is commemorated annually on July 9. His memory is preserved through various religious traditions and honors, particularly as part of a group of martyrs recognized for their deaths during the Second World War.