Under Communist leadership, Czechoslovakia held that women’s emancipation was equal access to the workforce and increased educational and social reforms, but they failed to address the issues of housework, gender roles, and women’s political presence. For example, while women were 11 times as educated in 1975 as they were in 1945, they were directed towards traditionally feminine fields of study. At the same time, however, financial and moral incentives were introduced for women to work for the bureaucracy. There’s no doubt that gender roles were becoming complex while staying traditional in Czechoslovakia.
Mushroom Foraging
Picking mushrooms is one of the most popular Czech Traditions, and is considered by some to be a national sport. It is often a family activity and rich with cultural traditions. In fact, over two-thirds of the population forage for mushrooms at least once a year. As fun as mushroom foraging is, it can be dangerous if one picks the wrong mushrooms, so there are experts to help the less-experienced, such as international visitors.
The (puppet) Strings that Bind Nations
Puppet theatre is an integral part of Slovak and Czech local theatre and literary tradition. It also plays an important role in socialization, helping audiences young and old develop as creative thinkers and learn about cooperation, communication, and strengthening their sense of identity in society.