The assassination of Reinhard Heydrich, one of the highest-ranking officials in Nazi Germany, took place in Prague during World War II. Heydrich was a key figure in the Nazi regime, known for his brutal and ruthless nature. His death had a significant impact on the course of the war and Czechoslovakia’s resistance movement.
The Operation Anthropoid
Heydrich’s assassination was part of a mission code-named “Operation Anthropoid,” carried out by Czechoslovak soldiers who were trained by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE).
The Target: Reinhard Heydrich
Heydrich was appointed as the Reichsprotektor of Bohemia and Moravia (now the Czech Republic) in 1941. He was responsible for suppressing any resistance against Nazi occupation and implementing policies that aimed to Germanize the region.
The location:
The attack on Heydrich was planned to take place in Prague, specifically at a sharp turn on his daily route between his residence and his office at Prague Castle.
The Assassination
Timeline:
- May 27, 1942: The team was deployed to Prague.
- May 27 – June 4, 1942: They observed Heydrich’s daily routine and planned their attack.
- June 4, 1942: The assassination took place at the intersection of Libeňský most (Liben Bridge) and V Holešovičkách Street.
The attack:
As Heydrich’s car slowed down at the turn, Jan Kubiš, one of the SOE-trained soldiers, threw a modified anti-tank grenade towards the vehicle. The explosion severely wounded Heydrich and his driver. Despite his injuries, Heydrich managed to fire back at the attackers.
Aftermath:
Heydrich was initially taken to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries on June 4, 1942. The Nazis launched a massive manhunt for the assassins and implemented brutal reprisals against the Czech population.
The Reprisals
The Nazi regime sought to make an example of Czechoslovakia and send a message of terror to other occupied countries. They enacted severe measures in response to Heydrich’s assassination:
- Mass executions: Over 1,300 people were executed in retaliation for Heydrich’s death, including innocent civilians.
- Lidice massacre: The village of Lidice was completely destroyed, and its male inhabitants were executed. Women and children were sent to concentration camps.
The Legacy
The assassination of Reinhard Heydrich had far-reaching consequences. It demonstrated that even high-ranking Nazi officials were vulnerable to resistance efforts and highlighted the bravery of those who fought against Nazi oppression.
This event remains an important chapter in Czech history, symbolizing resistance against tyranny and honoring those who sacrificed their lives for freedom.
In conclusion, Reinhard Heydrich was assassinated in Prague as part of “Operation Anthropoid.” The location chosen for the attack was a sharp turn on his daily route between his residence and office at Prague Castle.
The aftermath saw brutal reprisals by the Nazis, including mass executions and the destruction of Lidice. This event stands as a testament to the bravery and determination of those who fought against Nazi occupation.