Slovak Republic 1939 1945
Slovak Republic during World War II
The Slovak Republic, often referred to as the First Slovak Republic, existed from 1939 to 1945 during the turbulent period of World War II. This era marked Slovakia's transformation from being a part of Czechoslovakia to becoming a client state of Nazi Germany.
Establishment of the Slovak State
Following the Munich Agreement in 1938, which resulted in the annexation of the Sudetenland by Nazi Germany, Slovakia declared its autonomy within Czechoslovakia. The dissolution of Czechoslovakia was finalized on March 14, 1939, when Slovakia proclaimed its independence, forming the Slovak State (Slovenský štát), later known as the Slovak Republic. This declaration was a direct consequence of pressure from Adolf Hitler, who sought to weaken Czechoslovakia and expand German influence in Central Europe.
Political Structure and Leadership
The newly formed Slovak Republic was essentially a puppet regime under Nazi control. It was led by Jozef Tiso, a Catholic priest and politician, who became the country's President. The government was heavily influenced by the Nazi regime, aligning its policies with those of Germany and becoming a member of the Axis Powers.
Economic and Military Aspects
The Slovak economy during this period was closely tied to that of Nazi Germany. The country adopted the Slovak koruna as its currency. Economically, Slovakia contributed to the German war effort by supplying goods and materials.
Militarily, Slovakia supported Germany by participating in the invasion of Poland in 1939, marking the beginning of World War II. The Slovak Army, including the Slovak Expeditionary Army Group, also took part in the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union under German command.
Social and Cultural Implications
The wartime period in Slovakia was marked by significant social upheaval. The Jewish population, which had been an essential part of Slovak society, faced severe persecution. The government enacted anti-Jewish laws and deported thousands to concentration camps, contributing to the Holocaust.
Culturally, the regime promoted Slovak nationalism, often suppressing other ethnic groups and dissenting political entities.
The Slovak National Uprising
In 1944, the growing dissatisfaction with the Nazi-aligned regime led to the Slovak National Uprising. This resistance movement sought to overthrow the government and end Slovak collaboration with the Nazis. Although initially successful in liberating parts of the country, the uprising was eventually suppressed by German forces.
End of the First Slovak Republic
The end of World War II in 1945 brought significant changes. The collapse of Nazi Germany and the advance of Soviet troops led to the dissolution of the Slovak Republic. Slovakia was reintegrated into a re-established Czechoslovakia, marking the end of the Slovak state's short and complex existence.