A picturesque and clear-cut portrait of a family of an old miner, set against the backdrop of freedom fighters battling for Polish heritage in Silesia. The lead character’s family at the same time represents Silesian folk tradition, a focal point for patriotism and independency movements, yearning for a great and strong Poland.
It is 19120, two years after Poland regained its independence. After unfavorable results of a referendum conducted in an atmosphere of terror, the Third Silesian Uprising begins , its aim being for Upper Silesia to join Poland. Seven Basista brothers, led by the eldest, Erwin, joint the fight for their hometown to become Polish. The youngest brother, Gabriel, comes by a German uniform and gets across to the German side, where he falls in love with a nurse. Intense fighting takes place. The freedom fighters are aided by artillery lieutenant Sowiński. Sadly, during a mass offensive they take heavy losses and are forced to retreat to the border. The head of the family, old Basista, dies. Gabriel is wounded. Girls bring him across the border stream, where his three remaining brothers await him.
