Czech Center Museum Houston
Frantisek Kupka: Orphism

Bohemian artist Frantisek Kupka is the forefront mind behind the art form of Orphism. Orphism focuses on color and abstraction, similar to Cubism but also an “evolution” where abstract shapes are given precedence in contrast to solid, known geometric shapes. There are many examples of Orphism to see, spanning many years.

Frantisek Kupka: Orphism
Czech Center Museum Houston
Czech Beer : A Brief History

From the Brevnov Monastery to the modern-day Pilsner, the Czech people have been enjoying beer for over a thousand years. Known as the beer of tradition, Czech beer is ingrained into history itself. When beermaking was banned. the Brenov Monastery, as the first-ever Bohemian brewery, was exempt. Initially, after the ban on brewing ended, only noble families or homeowners were allowed to brew beer. It was in 1842 that the famous Pilsner was created.

Czech Beer : A Brief History
Czech Center Museum Houston
Eliska Junkova: Racing into History

Eliška Junková is the first woman to win the Grand Prix, in 1927. Even before, Junková was “Queen of the Steering Wheel,” a well-earned title that she worked towards since 1922. Her dedication to racing began with her dedication to her husband, Vincenc “Čenêk” Junek, whom she met at her job at the Prague Credit Bank.

Eliska Junkova: Racing into History
Czech Center Museum Houston
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.

Great Moravia: Mojmir I and Rostislav (830-870)
Czech Center Museum Houston
Milada Horakova

Milada Horakova was an advocate for democracy, stuck between both the Nazis and Communists for her adult life. During the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, she resisted, helping emigrants escape and harboring fugitives of the occupiers. Although she faced torture and death from the Nazis, she not only survived but also continued her same fight, this time with the Soviets. Sadly, she was sentenced to death and executed, even when eminent individuals of the time demanded her release.

Milada Horakova

Slovak

Shepherd Axe

Shepherd axes, or 'Valaska,' have a rich cultural history in Central and Eastern Europe. Originating in Eurasia, they were used for combat by Bulgarian and Hungarian warriors before becoming essential tools for shepherds. In Czechoslovakia and Poland, axes were personalized with carvings and became symbols of identity. These axes feature prominently in folklore and traditional dances, celebrating their cultural significance and artistic beauty.

George "Papa Bear" Halas

George "Papa Bear" Halas

The Chicago Bears began with American football coach, owner, and NFL administrator George “Papa Bear” Halas, born in Chicago, Illinois to Slovak immigrants. Initially, however, Halas began as a player who joined the Navy during World War I, before becoming a player-coach. Throughout his life, “Papa Bear” Halas invested his life into football, winning six NFL championships as head coach while practicing many innovative routines that allowed him and his team to win.

National Uprising Day

National Uprising Day

The Slavic uprising against the Nazis happened on August 29, 1944, now known as National Uprising Day. The Slovakian rebellion began in Banska Bystrica, from which the desire to rebel spread from.

Slovak Flag

Slovak Flag

White, red, and blue make up the Pan-Slavic Tricolor, chosen based on the flag of Russia since that nation, during the late 17th century, represented Slavic independence and power. In fact, their flag was initially too similar to the Russian flag for them to keep it that way, thus the decision to ultimately add the heraldic symbol was made on September 1, 1992.

The (puppet) Strings that Bind Nations

The (puppet) Strings that Bind Nations

Puppet theatre is an integral part of Slovak and Czech local theatre and literary tradition. It also plays an important role in socialization, helping audiences young and old develop as creative thinkers and learn about cooperation, communication, and strengthening their sense of identity in society.

Communist Party of Czechoslovakia Vs Communism in Vietnam

The term "communism" was first coined and defined by the French philosopher and writer Victor d'Hupay in his “ Projet de communauté philosophe” (Project for a Philosophical Community) book.