Meaning:
The quote you provided seems to be making a reference to the succession of popes and their historical context. Let's break it down and analyze the different elements in the quote.
The first part of the quote refers to "a Polish Pope." This is a clear reference to Pope John Paul II, who was born in Poland and served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1978 until his death in 2005. His papacy was significant for many reasons, including his role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe and his extensive travels, which made him one of the most recognizable and influential figures of the 20th century.
The quote further mentions that "his country was first to be invaded by the Germans in World War Two." This is a historical fact, as Poland was indeed the first country to be invaded by Nazi Germany in September 1939, marking the beginning of World War II. This invasion led to widespread devastation and suffering for the Polish people, and the country endured years of brutal occupation and resistance during the war.
The next part of the quote states, "we now have someone from the generation drafted at the close of the war." This appears to be a reference to a new leader or figure who comes from a generation that was directly impacted by the events of World War II. This could be interpreted as a recognition of the historical significance of individuals who lived through the war and its aftermath, and the unique perspective they may bring to their roles in shaping the world.
The quote is attributed to Horst Koehler, described as a "Statesman." Horst Koehler is a German politician and economist who served as the ninth President of Germany from 2004 to 2010. As a statesman, Koehler was known for his diplomatic and economic expertise, and his tenure as president coincided with significant global and domestic challenges, including the aftermath of the Iraq War and the global financial crisis.
In summary, the quote appears to highlight the historical and generational context of leadership and global events, drawing attention to the experiences of individuals who lived through pivotal moments such as World War II and its aftermath. It also suggests a sense of continuity and change in leadership, as new figures emerge to address the challenges of their time. Overall, the quote invites reflection on the impact of history and the resilience of individuals and nations in the face of adversity.