Legionární

Legionáři refers to members of the Czechoslovak Legions, foreign military formations composed of Czechs and Slovaks fighting for Czechoslovak independence during World War I. These legions were organized primarily in Allied countries, notably France, Italy, and Russia. Their formation was a pivotal element in the diplomatic efforts to establish an independent Czechoslovakia after the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The Czechoslovak Legions played a significant military role on various fronts. In France, they fought on the Western Front. In Italy, they served in the Italian army against the Central Powers. The most numerous and arguably most impactful were the Czechoslovak Legions in Russia. After the Bolshevik Revolution, these legions found themselves in a complex and dangerous situation, undertaking a remarkable journey across Siberia to reach the Pacific coast and eventually return to Europe. Their involvement in the Russian Civil War was a defining chapter, as they fought against both the Bolsheviks and various anti-Bolshevik forces, at times controlling significant stretches of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

The participation of the Legionáři was crucial in securing Allied recognition of the Czechoslovak National Council as a de facto government and later as the government of an independent Czechoslovakia. Their military exploits and sacrifices contributed significantly to the eventual establishment of the First Czechoslovak Republic in 1918. Post-war, the Legionáři were celebrated as national heroes and played influential roles in the political and social life of the new nation.