Slovakia sits at the very center of the European continent. Fighting pollution today, this largely rural country fights to protect its many undeveloped forests and endangered wildlife.

Introduces the geography, history, government, people, economy, and culture of Slovakia.

In August 1968, photojournalist Ladislav Bielik documented the end of the Prague Spring at the hands of the Warsaw Pact's armies. Of the 187 photos he took of that tumultuous time, one of the most famous was of a bare-chested man in front of the occupier's tank. The image has become one of the best known and most significant pictures of the 20th century. This splendid volume shows most of the shots hidden in the cellar of Bielik's house from the secret police. His son discovered the photos by chance and organized their transfer to the West where they have been published. This volume also provides a brief history of the reasons for the Prague Spring, and the events that took place after it was brutally crushed by the authorities. This volume documents an exhilarating time in Eastern European history, and its somber, heartbreaking end.

Last Folio features stunning photographs taken by Yuri Dojc of once-vibrant Jewish communities throughout Slovakia. Dojc's photographic journey began in an abandoned school in Bardejov where time had stood still since the day in 1942 when its students were taken to concentration camps. The books were still there, along with student essays marked with corrections and school reports—all disintegrating on dusty shelves. Dojc's eloquent photographs treat the decaying books as survivors, the last witnesses to what had been a thriving culture. Last Folio also includes portraits of aging Slovak Holocaust survivors and images of the poignant ruins of schools, synagogues, mikvahs, and cemeteries. With texts by Lucia Faltin, Katya Krausova, David G. Marwell, and Azar Nafisi, Last Folio presents a stirring tribute to a vanished culture.

Slovakia, a country nestled in the heart of Europe, is a land of deep historical roots, rich cultural traditions, and striking natural beauty. It is a country that remains somewhat undiscovered compared to its neighboring countries, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. For travelers looking to experience a different facet of Europe, Slovakia provides a diverse range of attractions, from medieval towns and castles to scenic mountain landscapes and lively cities. With its strategic location, Slovakia has long been a crossroad of various civilizations, contributing to its complex and fascinating history. In the modern era, it has emerged as a vibrant, forward-thinking country, with a growing tourism industry. However, it remains true to its traditions, with many customs and festivals continuing to play an essential role in daily life. This guide is designed to offer you a comprehensive view of Slovakia, highlighting the country's most significant features. Whether you're a history buff eager to explore ancient castles, a nature lover drawn to the beauty of Slovakia's mountainous national parks, or someone interested in experiencing its modern cities, there's something for everyone. Each chapter will take you through different aspects of Slovakian life and culture, aiming to provide a full picture of what this remarkable country has to offer.

An engaging pictorial history of the Slovak community in Chicagoland, documenting their journeys and struggles through rare and vintage images. The story of Slovak Americans in Chicagoland is a tale of the American dream. In a few short years, emigrants from Slovakia with little to their names came to the United States and succeeded beyond their highest hopes. This fascinating story of "rags to riches" has been documented in historical photographs in Images of America: Slovaks of Chicagoland. Many Slovaks came to America with few assets, no more than a sixth-grade education, and no knowledge of the English language. They went to school and became naturalized citizens. Many took menial jobs in stockyards, steel mills, and oil refineries. They saved their money and opened grocery stores, banks, construction firms, and other businesses. Slovaks built beautiful churches, quality schools, and recreational facilities. They raised their families to be proud Americans and incorporated traditions from Slovakia into their daily lives, including the important role of religion.