Polish-Czech cultural contacts in Vienna in the mid-19th century : (Slavic cooperation as a factor influencing mutual relations)

Nieaktywne DOI: 10.15804/hso250206

The article discusses efforts to integrate Slavs living in Vienna in the mid-19th century. The author aims to present the contribution of Czechs and Poles to these efforts and to explain the role of representatives of both nations. As the centre of the multi-ethnic Habsburg Monarchy, Vienna attracted individuals from various provinces of the state. Among the new arrivals were representatives of all nations living in the monarchy, including Czechs and Poles. However, the Czech community in Vienna was significantly larger than the Polish one. The Slavs arriving in the capital of the monarchy organised themselves, initially in churches while later, bookshops and cafés became their meeting places. From the 1840s, balls and ‘besedy’ (social gatherings) helped to integrate the Slavic communities in Vienna. Enjoying great popularity, they were intended to dispel stereotypes about Slavs prevalent among the German residents of the city. Representatives of all Slavic nations were involved in their organisation, with the Czechs undoubtedly being the most active in this field, while the Poles were much less involved. This disparity is understandable taking into account the large Czech minority in Vienna and its significance. The attitude of Poles was also influenced by their relationship with the monarchy and other nations living within it, including the Hungarians. Undoubtedly, the atmosphere in Vienna was conducive to cooperation between Slavs, not only in the social and cultural arenas.