"The history of Poland from 1945 to 1989 spans the period of Soviet communist dominance imposed after the end of World War II... These years, while featuring general industrialization and urbanization and many improvements in the standards of living in Poland, were marred by social unrest and economic depression." (Wikipedia)
We realized this as we left the museum and it left both Richard and I feeling really somber. After enduring the severe deprivations of the war years, along with the mass murder of millions of her people, there was no happy ending for Krakow.
I was expecting to feel depressed after visiting Auschwitz, but I think the museum caught us off guard. We walked somewhat aimlessly until we came to the river, and then walked along the river greenbelt in the sunshine which seemed to lift our spirits. We ate lunch on a river boat and had a nice chat about our future. Looking back I can see how that conversation was a manifestation of gratitude we were feeling for the blessings we can enjoy and look forward to in our lives.