Who Liberated Prague?

By Alice Nichols

Prague, the capital city of Czech Republic, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the events of World War II. One of the most significant events in this history is the liberation of Prague from Nazi occupation.

But who was responsible for this historic feat? Let’s take a closer look.

The Nazi Occupation of Prague

In March 1939, Germany invaded Czechoslovakia and established a puppet government in Prague. The city became an important center for the German war machine, with factories producing weapons and other supplies. The citizens of Prague were subjected to harsh living conditions and were denied basic freedoms.

The Soviet Army

On May 9th, 1945, Germany officially surrendered to the Allied forces, marking the end of World War II in Europe. The Soviet Army was one of the key players in defeating Nazi Germany and liberating many cities across Eastern Europe. Prague was no exception.

Marshal Konev

One name that is often associated with the liberation of Prague is Marshal Ivan Konev. Konev was a senior commander in the Red Army and led his troops into Prague on May 9th, 1945. His arrival sparked celebrations among the citizens who had been waiting for liberation for years.

The Controversy

However, Konev’s role in liberating Prague has been a subject of controversy over the years. Some argue that it was actually American troops who played a more significant role in freeing the city from Nazi control. General George Patton’s Third Army had advanced into western Czechoslovakia by May 4th, 1945, five days before Konev’s arrival in Prague.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there may be some debate over who exactly liberated Prague from Nazi occupation, there is no denying that it was a pivotal moment in the city’s history. The citizens of Prague had suffered for years under Nazi rule, and the arrival of Allied forces brought hope and freedom. Whether it was the Soviet Army or American troops who played the greater role, their efforts ensured that Prague would be forever remembered as a city that fought for its liberation.