Kościuszko's First Love

"Kościuszko's First Love" is a cinematic portrayal of the youthful years of the future Leader of the Nation. In 1774, Tadeusz Kościuszko returns from his studies in Paris to his homeland, full of hope that King Stanisław August will make use of his talent for the good of the country. However, he is met with disappointment—the monarch rejects his request to serve. Disheartened, Kościuszko goes to the countryside to stay with the voivode, where he meets his daughter Ludwika and they fall in love mutually. However, the girl's parents plan her marriage to the wealthy Prince Lubomirski, not considering the modest officer a worthy suitor. The young couple plans to escape and marry in secret, but their plan is betrayed. Ludwika returns home, and Kościuszko, brokenhearted, leaves the country. Years later, he will return—now as a hero of the American War of Independence and the future leader of the national uprising.