Meaning: The quote you provided refers to the role and authority of the police officers during the time of Nazi occupation in Poland. It specifically mentions that the police officers were under the German Reich police system and were not connected with the administration of the Government General. This quote sheds light on the complex and often overlapping systems of governance and control that were in place during this period.

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of the quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context of Nazi occupation in Poland. After the German invasion of Poland in 1939, the country was divided into separate zones of occupation. The western part of Poland was directly incorporated into the German Reich, while the central and eastern areas were designated as the General Government, which was administered by the Nazi regime and governed by Hans Frank, who was appointed as the Governor-General.

Within this framework, the German authorities established and enforced their own systems of governance, including the police force. The German Reich police system, as mentioned in the quote, was an integral part of the Nazi regime's control and administration. This system was characterized by its strict discipline, centralized organization, and direct allegiance to the German authorities. The police officers operating under this system were subject to German laws, regulations, and command structures, effectively making them an instrument of German control in the occupied territories.

In contrast, the Government General, under the administration of Hans Frank, had its own administrative structures and governing bodies. However, as the quote emphasizes, the police officers were not directly affiliated with the Government General. This distinction highlights the dual and sometimes conflicting sources of authority that existed within the occupied territories. While the Government General had its own administrative functions, the German Reich police system operated independently, with its own chains of command and directives.

The separation of the police force from the local administration had significant implications for the exercise of power and control in the occupied territories. It meant that the police officers, despite operating within the geographical boundaries of the Government General, were answerable to the German Reich authorities rather than the local Polish administration. This dynamic reinforced the overarching authority of the German occupation and contributed to the suppression of local autonomy and resistance.

Moreover, the quote's reference to discipline, organization, pay, and orders underscores the comprehensive integration of the police force into the German Reich system. The officers were subject to the strict discipline and hierarchical structure of the German police, received their pay from German authorities, and followed orders from the German command. This further solidified the subordinate position of the local police within the broader framework of Nazi occupation.

In conclusion, the quote encapsulates the intricate power dynamics and administrative complexities that characterized the Nazi occupation of Poland. It illustrates the subordination of the local police force to the German Reich police system and highlights the distinct separation between the police and the administration of the Government General. Understanding this historical context is crucial for comprehending the multifaceted mechanisms of control and governance that were imposed by the Nazi regime during this tumultuous period in European history.

I hope this explanation provides a clear understanding of the quote and its historical significance. If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask.