If you get the chance, you should really visit this absolutely beautiful country. The landscape is gorgeous, the food is not bad, and the people are so friendly. Prague, its capital, is incredibly touristy but still somehow quaint.
The Czech Republic itself is a relatively new country, it only came into being in 1993. Before this is was part of Czechoslovakia. And before this - well it was an ancient kingdom, dating back to the 9th century when it was known as Bohemia
It explains why, if you know Czech, you can quite happily speak to a Slovakian - the languages are so so similar. Unfortunately, I dont speak either - so its not such a happy experience. As its a slavic tongue, though, you are able to communicate if you speak any of these slavic derivatives.
In recent times there have been some fantastic Czech authors, my fave including Milan Kundera - though slightly heavy going. but i'd still recommend.
The velvet revolution of November 1989 (in Czechoslovakia) was a peaceful demonstration, mostly by students, against the communist ruling party. Along with the collapse of the Warsaw Pact, this saw the end of communism in this country. And in 1990 Czechoslovakia had its first democratic elections.
Apparently, and rather lovelily - One symbolic element of the demonstrations of the Velvet Revolution was the jingling of keys. The practice had a double meaning—it not only symbolized the unlocking of doors, but was the demonstrators' way of telling the Communists, "Goodbye, it's time to go home."
When I was living in Cieszyn, but not on the czech side, I was told that a great reminder of the fall of communism was the song - the wind of change - by the Scorpions. My friends who were from the CIS states and ex communist countries whistled the song, and knew all the words. even those who didnt speak any english.
I have posted a link to this song here.
I know that this really isn't comprehensive. in fact I have written longer essays. but this was just a few thoughts sewn and thrown together.
Your bloglets leave me feeling more cleverer ;)
ReplyDeleteAt some point I would love to visit the country. Have fun with the a-z challenge!
ReplyDeleteit is lovely, looking at pictures isnt quite up to scratch - but its what im settling for x
DeleteInteresting blog. I wonder if we in the U.S. started jingling our keys at the Communists over here, if they would get the message and leave. I might give it a try and see what happens!
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