History / How difficult was it for Polish citizens to emigrate during the 1980's? [2]

In the 1980's was it difficult for Polish citizens to immigrate to another country?
Was it even more difficult to come to the United States versus other countries?
Did anyone here move to the US during that time or know someone who did?

I am curious as to how the process worked at that time.
Even if it was before the 1980's I'd still like to learn about the experience.
The best answer I found online was that many requests were denied.

I ask because that's when my parents moved and they don't seem interested in sharing their US immigration story.

Polonia / Sending gifts from somewhere in the EU to Poland - options as shipping is expensive! [3]

I want to send some baby shower gifts to my cousin in Poland.
But the shipping is crazy expensive!

Are there any Polish eCommerce sites anyone could recommend that take USD?
Is there a way to maybe navigate Amazon to ship from somewhere in the EU to Poland?
I searched the forums and seen Amazon gift cards are a popular option but has anyone had first hand experience with the currency exchange on them?

I would hate to send a gift card and not know how much would be taken out for currency exchange.