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The Czechs had even had their national army, although without rifles and ammunition. We mean the “Sokol” Gymnastic Association which had some 200,000 members with branches also in other Slav countries. It was chiefly through this movement that the Czecho-Slovaks acquired the splendid physique, discipline and daring spirit which are so characteristic of the Czecho-Slovak soldiers of to-day.
Through their own efforts and notwithstanding all obstacles on the part of the Austrian Government, the Czecho-Slovaks have, before the war, become an advanced and wealthy nation, possessing everything, in fact, except their actual State sovereignty.
The Czecho-Slovak national spirit and
character.
By their continuous struggle with the Germans and by their sufferings, the Czechs acquired many excellent qualities of character. They are a stubborn race, always ready to face danger, although on the other hand there is also the Slay meekness and kindness in them. They are also very efficient in science and organisation, and like all Slavs the Czecho-Slovaks are extremely fond of art and especially of music. Indeed in this respect they are considered to be one of the most musical races of the world. Their composers like Dvorak, Smetana, Novak or Suk enjoy a world reputation
