The history of Czech poetry goes as far back as the 9th century. It begins with the works of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who translated texts in the bible from Greek to Old Church Slavic, a language in which the first Czech poems were written. Since then, Czech poetry continued to flourish, even when the chosen languages of the Czechs continued to face challenges throughout the centuries. The apparent culmination of Czech poetic culture is of a poem, Máj, written by Karel Hynek Mácha.
Beginnings of Bohemia: Borivoj I and the Premyslids
Bohemia's beginnings started with Svatopluk I of Great Moravia giving Borivoj I control of the of the soon-to-be Bohemian lands. Even early in his career as the first duke, his kingdom faced war as he supported Svatopluk I during his war against Louie the German and the Eastern Franks. Also early in his career, he faced controversy from fellow elites and had to involve himself in more war to maintain his power and position. Beginnings aren't easy!
Great Moravia: Mojmir I and Rostislav (830-870)
After the death of Samo, there was uncertainty about the Czech and Moravian lands, but after the rise of Charlamange of the Frankish Kingdom, Moravians were able to recover. The princes of Moravia consolidated their power, and one in particular Mojmir I, rose beyond tribal institutions to establish Great Moravia. After Mojmir I's deposition, his nephew Rostislav became Louis the German's loyal vassal. In secret, however, Rostislav had ambitions beyond this.
Samo and his Empire (631 – 658)
In the mid-seventh century, the "first Slavic State" came into existence, ruled by Samo, thus named Samo's Empire. It began with Samo as a Frankish merchant who aided the Slavs in their revolt against the ruling Avars. Samo was such a major contributor to the effort that he was chosen as the leader. The rest is history...