The Sorbian National Movement in the Struggle for Independence (1918-1919)

Abstract

The Lusatian Sorbs, also known as Sorbs or Lusatians, are a small West Slavic ethnic group residing in the eastern part of modern Germany within the territories of Brandenburg and Saxony, around the cities of Bautzen and Cottbus, in the historical-geographical region known as Lusatia. Since the Middle Ages, Lusatia has been divided into southern and northern parts known as Upper and Lower Lusatia, and as a result, the small-sized ethnic group – approximately 80 thousand individuals – is divided into two sub-ethnic groups. The article describes the evolution of views and actions of Sorbian-Lusatian enlighteners, intellectuals, and political figures in their attempt to achieve the independence of Lusatian Serbia during the period from November 1918 to September 1919. In particular, it highlights the role of the Sorbian enlightening society "Domowina" and the activities of public figures Arnošt Bart and Adolf Černý in the Sorbian-Lusatian political movement. Drawing on the works of researchers in the history and culture of the Sorbian-Lusatian people, the article reveals the reasons that prompted Lusatian politicians to speak about independence, their relations with Czechoslovakia, and the consequences of the political struggle for statehood.