Some socio-psychological aspects of the Czecho-Slovakian crisis of 1938-39

During the course of the last ten to fifteen years the vaguely perceived social changes, caused by the terrific impact of the Great World War upon Europe and the world in general, began to crystalize into perceptible form - into definite movements which made themselves well known and keenly felt among the nations of the earth. In this period one finds the rise and strengthening of totalitarian movements, such as Communism, Fascism and Naziism, together with all their many ramifications. Naturally one is not surprised to discover counteractions and buffeting tendencies of democratic governments, which also in this period began to crystalize into protective programs against the onslaught of these powerful forces. During the last three or four years, and especially at the present time, the totalitarian states have come into open conflict with the democracies in their demand for increased world power. One of these states in particular has been and still is making itself felt in the world with no small degree of impact and drive. That state is Nazi Germany, which under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, is determined to increase its boarders If not by peaceful means, then by violence and war. One of the earlier conquests of Nazi Germany, although accomplished without actual warfare, was the gradual breakdown and the final occupation of the democratic Republic of Czecho-Slovakia during 1938-39.