In January 1969, the public was shaken by the self-immolation of student Jan Palach, who less than five months after the August occupation attempted to rouse his fellow citizens from their lethargy. His protest had a great resonance in Czechoslovakia and abroad, as evidenced by his many followers.
The debate will focus on the case of Jan Zajíc, who set himself on fire on 25 February 1969. Other lesser-known so-called living torches will also be presented. Historians will explain how these acts were reflected by society and the regime, as well as the tragic effects the protest of these individuals had on their families.
The debate will feature the historian and archivist Branislav Dorko, author of a monograph on Jan Zajic, and the historian Petr Blažek, who wrote a monograph on the living torches in the Soviet bloc and is the author of the historical exhibition at the Jan Palach Memorial. The debate will be moderated by historian Kryštof Zeman.
We cordially invite you to the library of exile and samizdat literature on Tuesday , 27 February 2024 at 6 p.m. Libri prohibiti.
Photo: Jan Zajíc (ABS)