Czech Republic Awaits Unveiling of Masaryk’s Last Words

PRAGUE, Czech Republic — Citizens are buzzing with anticipation as the mystery of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk’s last words is set to be revealed this Friday. Masaryk, who served as the first president of the Czechoslovak Republic from 1918 to 1935, is remembered as a prominent figure in Czech history.

The words were reportedly recorded by his son Jan Masaryk before Tomáš’s death in September 1937 and have been hidden in a sealed letter for decades. Czech public radio has announced plans to cover the unveiling, inviting the public to finally hear what the founding father may have said in his final moments.

Historian Dagmar Hájková, from the Masaryk Institute and Archives, states that Jan likely noted his father’s final remarks while sitting by his bedside. “He might have written it on his knee, in a hurry, nervously, so the handwriting might not be legible,” she explained, suggesting the note could be fragmented and unclear.

Masaryk’s health had been deteriorating since 1934, raising speculation that the letter could have been written earlier than 1937, when he was believed to be nearing death.

The letter’s journey is as intriguing as its content. After Jan Masaryk died under suspicious circumstances post the Communist coup in 1948, he entrusted the letter to his secretary, Antonín Sum. Sum successfully smuggled it out of Czechoslovakia, which had turned into a Soviet satellite state after World War II.

Decades later, Sum and another secretary, Lumír Soukup, donated the letter to the Czech National Archive in 2005, with a stipulation that it remain sealed for 20 years. That period is set to expire on September 19, 2025.

The excitement surrounding the envelope has ignited widespread interest across the Czech Republic, with media outlets covering the anticipated event, and social media buzzing with speculation. Some expect profound insights or prophetic warnings from Masaryk, potentially foresight about conflicts looming in Europe.

Others are taking a lighter approach. Klára Voláková, a teacher, shared students’ imaginative guesses about the letter’s contents, such as recipes for traditional Czech dishes or claims linking Masaryk to the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I.

The ceremony will take place at Lány Castle, located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) west of Prague, attended by current President Petr Pavel. Czech public radio plans to broadcast the unsealing live, marking a historic moment for the nation.

Masaryk, often called TGM, is not just a political figure but a symbol of independence for Czechoslovakia, revered by many for his intellect and leadership roles during significant European upheavals, making the anticipation surrounding the letter even more profound.