Dissolution of Czechoslovakia
Since the federalization in 1968, Czechoslovakia had divided citizenship, either of the Czech Socialist Republic or of the Slovak Socialist Republic (the word 'Socialist' was dropped from both names shortly after the Velvet Revolution). This distinction, however, had little effect on the citizen's life. On January 1, 1993, all Czechoslovak citizens automatically became citizens either of the Czech Republic or the Slovak Republic, based on their previous citizenship, permanent residence address, birthplace, family ties, job, and other criteria. Additionally, people had one year's time to claim the other citizenship under certain conditions.
Events preceding World War II in Europe
Hitler continued to put pressure on the Czech government. On March 14
Slovakia declared its independence under Jozef Tiso, which was
recognized by France, Britain and other important powers. The following day,
Emil Hácha accepted a German occupation of the remaining parts of the Czech
lands. From the Prague Castle, the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia was proclaimed by Hitler.