Final answer:
The Polish army faced difficulties responding to the German attack due to their lack of modern equipment, older strategic thinking, and the flat landscape of western Poland. Additionally, the lack of support from France, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union further contributed to their challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Polish army faced difficulties responding to the German attack due to several reasons. Firstly, Poland lacked modern equipment and had older strategic thinking that urged confrontation with the Germans. Additionally, the flat landscape of western Poland provided few natural barriers to the German advance, making it easier for the Germans to employ maneuvers to penetrate and encircle Polish defenses.
Furthermore, Poland was left to face the German attack alone as France and Great Britain, despite declaring war on Germany, did not provide significant assistance. The Soviet Union, who had recently signed a pact with Germany, also invaded Poland from the east. This combination of factors, including the lack of support from their proclaimed allies and the merciless German offensive, led to the Polish surrender in just over a month.
The German strategy of blitzkrieg, which involved quick and massive air strikes followed by a land invasion of troops, armor, and artillery, proved highly effective against the Polish army's limited capabilities. The overwhelming force and coordinated tactics used by the Germans played a significant role in the difficulties faced by the Polish army in responding.