Slovak National Uprising Anniversary

Quick Facts - EU

AKA NameVýročie Slovenského národného povstania
HashtagsCompiled on#Slovakia
Related Hashtags#OTD, #SNP
2023 Date29 August 2023
2024 Date29 August 2024

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Slovak National Uprising

The Observance of the Slovak National Uprising Anniversary commemorates the resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II. The Slovak National Uprising, an armed insurrection organized by the Slovak resistance movement, took place between August and October 1944. Its main objectives were to liberate the territory of present-day Slovakia from German occupation forces, to overthrow the puppet regime of Jozef Tiso, and to support the Allied powers in their fight against the Axis powers.

In the context of European history, the Slovak National Uprising holds great significance as it symbolizes the fight for freedom and democracy in the face of fascist oppression. Although the Uprising was ultimately suppressed by German forces, it inspired and supported by the European resistance movement, which was key in shaping the political landscape of post-war Europe and the establishment of the European Union.

The Slovak National Uprising Anniversary is predominantly observed by Slovakia, as well as by other EU member states with a shared history of resistances against totalitarian regimes. Various events and commemorations are held across the continent, reflecting the spirit of unity and resilience demonstrated by the Uprising. These ceremonies pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who took part in the Slovak National Uprising and all those who have fought for freedom and democracy throughout European history. The Slovak National Uprising Anniversary is observed annually on the 29th of August.

Top facts about Slovak National Uprising Anniversary

  • Finally, in 1947, the US government arrested former Slovak President, Josef Tito, and put him on trial in Czechoslovakia. Later that year he was executed for his crimes.
  • The resistance movement in Slovakia lasted until liberation in April 1945. The Soviet Army arrived to assist the Slovaks in their quest for liberation from Nazi rule.
  • At the time of WW2, Josef Tiso was the president of Slovakia. He supported Nazi Germany and allowed masses of Jews to be deported from Germany.
  • It is estimated that around 80% of Slovakian Jews were murdered during the Holocaust.
  • Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hols us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act. - Dietrich Bonhoeffer, anti-Nazi German pastor

Slovak National Uprising Anniversary Top Events and Things to Do

  • Generate awareness for the day on social media with hashtags such as #remember, #SlovakUprising #NotoNazi.
  • Visit the Memorial, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Museum of the Slovak National Uprising in Banska Bystrica.
  • Lay a wreath on the National Uprising monument in Bratislava. Others also head to the gravesites of war veterans and place wreaths, candles and flowers on them.
  • Read a book that details more of the events and stories of those who lived the WW2 years. Some of our suggestions: Slovakia 1944: The Forgotten, Memories of the Slovak Uprising, Germany's First Ally and The Czechoslovak Struggle for Independence.
  • Watch a movie that depicts the horrors of the Holocaust regime to further understand the beginnings of the Slovak Uprising. Some of our favourites: Schindler's List (1993), Life is Beautiful (1997), Auschwitz (2011) and Jakob the Liar (1999).

References

www.mzv.sk: Uprising

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