Sokol

physical-culture and civic movement · important base for domestic resistance

from 1862 · here particularly resistance in 1941–1942

Sokol began in Prague in 1862 as a gymnastics association also active in cultural and civic life. Under occupation, some members joined the resistance. Their personal contacts helped Kubiš, Gabčík and other parachutists find shelters, documents, food and medical assistance.

More than exercise together

Miroslav Tyrš and Jindřich Fügner were the association’s founders. Sokol combined physical development with education and civic activity. The relationships between people who knew one another through its branches matter to ANTHROPOID’s story: under occupation, they used those connections to organize help.

From association to clandestine assistance

Nazi repression targeted Sokol leaders, with extensive arrests in October 1941. Some members continued resistance work. JINDRA and the Říjen group were Sokol resistance circles, but neither the whole movement nor every helping household can be identified with one clandestine organization.

Particular people, practical help

Jan Zelenka-Hajský connected Prague shelters and contacts. Jaroslav Piskáček organized assistance in Vysočany and, after the attack, arranged physician Břetislav Lyčka for the wounded Kubiš. Their stories show personal relationships becoming the practical assistance needed to live underground.

Explore further

• JINDRA

  One circle within the Sokol resistance.

• Jan Zelenka-Hajský

  Sokol organizer of Prague assistance.

• Jaroslav Piskáček

  Leader of the Vysočany Sokol branch and organizer of support.

• Biskupcova 4

  Zelenka’s base for organizing Sokol assistance.

• The Piskáček home

  The Sokol supporter’s home where Kubiš received treatment.