The Czech Sokol March "Lví silou" ("By the Lion's Force") was written by František Josef Pelz. In the 1930's it was selected as the anthem of the Sokol movement competing with V nový život march.
The Sokol movement was a Czech gymnastics organization founded in 1862 by Miroslav Tyrš and Jindřich Fügner. It aimed to promote physical fitness, cultural development, and national consciousness among the Czech people, who were under the cultural and political influence of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the time.
Sokol, which means "falcon" in Czech, emphasized gymnastics, sports, and physical education as a means of fostering national identity and unity. It became a focal point for Czech nationalism and resistance against the Germanization policies of the Austro-Hungarian authorities.
The Sokol movement played a significant role in Czech society, promoting a sense of pride in Czech culture, language, and heritage. It organized gymnastics festivals, cultural events, and educational programs throughout Czech lands, contributing to the preservation and development of Czech national identity.
After Czechoslovakia gained independence in 1918, Sokol continued to operate as a popular sports and cultural organization. However, it faced challenges during the Nazi occupation and later under communist rule in Czechoslovakia. Despite these challenges, Sokol has remained an important symbol of Czech national pride and cultural heritage.
Many members of the Sokol movement joined the Czechoslovak Legion, bringing with them their physical fitness, discipline, and nationalist fervor. Within the Legion, Sokol members played a significant role in organizing physical training, maintaining morale, and promoting the ideals of Czechoslovak independence.
During their time in the Legion, Sokol members participated in various military campaigns, including the battles on the Eastern Front against the Central Powers. Their contributions to the Legion's efforts were instrumental in securing support for the creation of an independent Czechoslovak state after the war.
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14 апр 2024
