On July 21, we mark 146 years since the birth of Milan Rastislav Štefánik — a remarkable astronomer, aviator, military leader, and diplomat who played a crucial role in the founding of Czechoslovakia. Born in 1880, Štefánik lived a life that bridged science and statecraft, sky and soil, ambition and sacrifice. Today, we speak with renowned Slovak historian Michal Kšiňan, author of the first scientific monograph on Štefánik, “Milan Rastislav Štefánik: The Man Who Talked to the Stars,” to explore story, public image, and some of the myths that still surround this important figure even today.
In the 50th episode of Slovak Sound Check, Veronika is joined by Lubna and Seán to reflect on their Slovak-learning journey and look back at episodes 41 to 49, revisiting topics from adjectives and summer plans to useful vocabulary and grammar tips.