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The Urząd Stanu Cywilnego (USC) is a Polish term that translates to the "Registry Office" or "Civil Registration Office" in English. It is a crucial institution responsible for recording vital events of Polish citizens, including births, marriages, and deaths. The history of the USC is closely tied to the development of civil registration systems in Poland.

The concept of civil registration dates back to the late 18th century, during the times of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. However, it was only with the introduction of the Napoleonic Code in the early 19th century that the idea of a centralized civil registration system gained significant traction.

Under the Napoleonic Code, which was implemented in the Duchy of Warsaw (1807-1815), the registration of vital events became a state function rather than a religious one. This marked a significant departure from the earlier practice, where churches and religious authorities were primarily responsible for recording births, marriages, and deaths.

After the Congress of Vienna in 1815, Poland lost its independence and was divided among Prussia, Russia, and Austria. Each of these occupying powers introduced its own regulations regarding civil registration in the territories they controlled. For example, Prussia implemented a system similar to the French one, while in the Russian and Austrian sectors, religious authorities continued to play a role in vital record keeping.

It was only after Poland regained its independence in 1918 that the issue of unifying civil registration across the country became a priority. In 1926, a new law was enacted, creating a uniform system of civil registration throughout the country, and the Urząd Stanu Cywilnego was established as the central institution responsible for maintaining these records.

Despite Poland's tumultuous history during World War II and the subsequent years under communist rule, the USC continued to function as a vital institution responsible for civil registration. Today, the Urząd Stanu Cywilnego remains an essential part of the Polish administrative system, playing a key role in recording and managing vital events for Polish citizens.