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The Slovak League of America was established in 1907 during the Cleveland Slovak National Congress, with the goal of supporting Slovakia’s independence and promoting Slovak culture and interests in the United States. It aimed to unite Slovak Americans to improve the welfare of their homeland and strengthen their community in the U.S.
In the early 20th century, Slovak immigrants in America became increasingly aware of the struggles their fellow Slovaks faced under Hungarian rule. With a growing sense of national identity and freedom, Slovak Americans sought to aid their homeland by offering financial and moral support. By 1906, Slovak Americans had sent over seventy thousand crowns to Slovakia for political and national causes. However, their support led to harsher repression from Hungarian authorities, and the Slovaks knew they needed a more organized response.
The Slovak community in America had learned the importance of unity through their various local and national societies, with membership exceeding 100,000 by the early 1900s. They realized they needed to form a unified front, combining their efforts across different organizations. This effort culminated in the founding of the Slovak League of America on May 26, 1907, at the National Slovak Congress in Cleveland. The League brought together numerous Slovak American groups, including fraternal organizations, cultural societies, and women's unions, to advocate for Slovakia's liberation and the well-being of Slovak immigrants.
The League’s founder, Father Furdek, emphasized the need for effective, non-partisan action rather than futile complaints. The League’s goal was to work for Slovakia’s freedom and national revival. Over the years, the Slovak League of America has made significant contributions, including advocating for the creation of Czechoslovakia in 1918, providing support during both world wars, and organizing political and cultural events.
The League continues to serve as an important voice for Slovak Americans, publishing an annual journal, *Slovakia*, and promoting Slovak heritage and interests across both continents. The Slovak League’s legacy includes its role in key political events, the creation of the Slovak state, and its continued support for Slovak culture and independence.