The Struggle for the Soul of the Nation

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The material effects of World War II and Eastern Europe's undemocratic interwar history propelled radical social change onto the postwar agenda in the region, shaping debates in immediate postwar Czech society. These discussions took on cultural and political forms, focusing on the recent past and the nation's position on the East-West continuum, as well as the meaning of socialism. The examination of historical and cultural debates in Czech society after WWII reveals that communist leaders effectively controlled narratives surrounding the interwar First Republic, Munich, and WWII, influencing perceptions of the nation’s alignment. This control was reflected in the political struggles of the time, particularly regarding socialism. The communists engaged with opponents from the democratic socialist and Roman Catholic camps, and notably garnered support from a significant Protestant church. Through a careful analysis of major publications, the author reconstructs a postwar atmosphere that was open to radical social change, challenging the conventional understanding of the communists' ascent to power. This work not only enhances the literature on Czech history but also prompts broader inquiries into the connections between war and social transformation, the communist takeover, and the role of intellectuals in public discourse.