Nowogródek Voivodeship (1919–1939)

The Nowogródek Voivodeship (Polish: Województwo Nowogródzkie) was an administrative region of the Second Polish Republic between 1919 and 1939. It encompassed a significant portion of present-day western Belarus, with its capital located in Nowogródek (Navahrudak).

The voivodeship was created following the Polish-Soviet War and the Treaty of Riga in 1921, which formally delineated the border between Poland and Soviet Russia (later the Soviet Union). Its territory was largely derived from the former Minsk Governorate and Grodno Governorate of the Russian Empire.

Administratively, the Nowogródek Voivodeship was divided into several powiats (districts). The population was diverse, consisting of Poles, Belarusians, Jews, Lithuanians, and Russians. The region's economy was primarily agricultural, although some light industry also existed.

The voivodeship experienced considerable political and social tensions throughout its existence. These tensions stemmed from ethnic diversity, differing national aspirations, and economic disparities. The Polish government pursued policies aimed at promoting Polish culture and language, which often led to friction with the Belarusian and other minority populations.

In September 1939, following the Soviet invasion of Poland, the Nowogródek Voivodeship was annexed by the Soviet Union and incorporated into the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic. Its territory is now part of Belarus. The Polish administration ceased to exist, and many Polish officials, military personnel, and civilians were arrested and deported.