History /
Czech and Polish character in World War two [81]
are generally known as a cowardly nation [I did say generally].
I do not get offence, of course, because all may have there different opinion and we must respect this. But most Czechs would feel offence by this words. Czechs prefer to speak about wisdom, not cowardly acts.
Facts which I try present as neutral.
Czechs did not fight in 1938 because they were encirled by enemies: Germany, Poland, Hungary. Inside there was home oppostion from Sudeten Germans and Slovaks. Friends were far. West countries England and France abandoned Ceskoslovensko and allowed Hitler do which he wanted. Nobody protested.
It is not cowardly to surrender, it is wise. Czechs did not fight and survived war in good condition.
Czeskoslovensko losses:
Czechoslovakia
population:15,300,000(See Footnote)
soldiers dead 25,000
civilians 300,000
total 325,000
percent of population 2.12
Czech cities were not destroyed, industry also survived.
Opposite, Poland chose fight. Poles opposition to Hitler as first country, but the result was horrible. Millions died, country was destroyed, Warsaw vanished from earth.
Poland (within 1939 borders)
34,849,000
240,000
5,380,000
percent of losses (16.1 to 16.7)
I do not want to say I reject Polish choise. I admire Polish romantic behaviour which shows that Pole can die but he must be a free person. It is best seen in Warsaw Uprising, outstanding fact of incredible bravery and heroism.
Only I want present Czech point of view. Bohemia is small country among bigger nations and Czechs feel they must care of every life.
