Vojtech Tuka
Vojtech Lázar "Béla" Tuka (4 July 1880 – 20 August 1946) was a prominent Slovak politician who served as the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the First Slovak Republic during a critical period from 1939 to 1945. His tenure was marked by close cooperation with Nazi Germany and a controversial role in the deportation of Slovak Jews to concentration camps.
Early Life and Political Rise
Born in 1880, Tuka was educated in law and quickly rose in political prominence within Slovakia. His career was particularly noted for aligning with the ÄÄHlinka's Slovak People's Party, a political movement that championed Slovak nationalism and autonomy within Czechoslovakia.
Role in the First Slovak Republic
As a leader in the First Slovak Republic, Tuka's influence was significant in shaping the state's policies during World War II. He became Prime Minister in October 1939, succeeding Jozef Tiso, and continued to serve until September 1944. Tuka's government is infamous for its support of the Nazi regime and its active participation in the Holocaust, facilitating the deportation of Slovak Jews to extermination camps in occupied Poland.
Decline and Arrest
Towards the end of the war, Tuka suffered a stroke that left him incapacitated and no longer able to participate actively in political affairs. As the Allies advanced, Tuka fled to Austria with his family and caretakers. However, he was arrested by Allied forces and extradited to Czechoslovakia after Germany capitulated.
Trial and Execution
In a brief trial conducted by the renewed Czechoslovak government, Tuka was convicted of war crimes and treason due to his collaboration with Nazi Germany and his involvement in the atrocities against the Jewish population. He was executed by hanging on 20 August 1946.
Legacy
Tuka's legacy remains a contentious subject in Slovak history. His collaboration with Nazi Germany and direct involvement in war crimes left an indelible mark on his country's history. Interestingly, his name appeared in post-war revelations concerning dormant Swiss bank accounts from the World War II era, highlighting the complex and often murky financial dealings of political figures during the war.