Czechs Mark Velvet Revolution Anniversary
A significant event in modern history, the Velvet Revolution of 1989 was marked with 20th anniversary celebrations today in Prague. Responsible for the overthrow of the Communist government in the country that was at that time known as Czechoslovakia, it opened a new chapter for the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Today, visitors to Prague don’t have to go far seek out reminders of recent history. While anniversary celebrations come rarely, those interested in the events of the last century need simply explore Prague for a more complete view this period in time. For example, Prague’s Cafe Slavia was a famous haunt of Vaclav Havel, who became president following the Velvet Revolution. The Monument to Jan Palach and Jan Zajic commemorates two students who set themselves on fire in protest of the Soviet pursuit of Prague in the 1960s. And Prague’s Communism Museum educates its visitors about events that occurred from 1948-1989.
Photo Caption: Candles are lit in commemoration of an attack on student demonstrators precedent to the Velvet Revolution. Photo Credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images