Jan Olszewski proved his steadfastness on many occasions. During World War II, then in the period of the Polish People's Republic and in the Third Republic of Poland. He was a politician, lawyer, social activist and defence counsel in political trials under communism. He was active as a scout in the Grey Ranks and took part in the Warsaw Uprising. He was a co-founder of the Workers' Defence Committee, an advisor to the Solidarity movement, a participant in the Round Table talks and an advisor to President Lech Kaczyński.

Prime Minister of the government of free Poland

Olszewski was Prime Minister of the government of free Poland, a member of the Sejm of the first, third and fourth terms, and a Knight of the Order of the White Eagle.

 “He was perfectly honest, faithful to his views and, at the same time, extremely courageous,” said the Prime Minister. “I would like us to remember Jan Olszewski's legacy and be faithful to the principles he stood for.”

The head of the Polish Government laid flowers at the grave of the late Prime Minister Jan Olszewski on the third anniversary of his death. To honour him, a conference room at the Chancellery of the Prime Minister was named after him.