On January 1, 1993, Czechoslovakia was divided into two entities: the Czech Republic and the Republic of Slovakia. The Czech Republic now occupies about two-thirds of the area that once was Czechoslovakia, and consists of the Bohemian plateau in the east and the Moravian lowlands to the west. Mountains form most of the republic's northern border with Germany and Poland. Czechoslovakia was occupied by Germany during World War II, but the Communists emerged as the strongest party in 1946 and by 1948 their grip on the country had tightened. The country remained under the Communists until 1989 when the "Velvet Revolution" ensured a relatively painless transition towards a non-Communist government. In 1992 the government agreed to the partition of Czechoslovakia, and the Czech and Slovak Republics were born the following year. Since Communism, private ownership of land has increased, and crops including hops, grains, and fruits are grown. The Czech Republic has mineral reserves, and machinery and vehicles are produced for export. The European Countries Today series provides information on 15 of the most important countries in Europe. Each book in the series describes the history, geography, economy, culture, and relationship each country has with its neighbors. There is also a separate title, European Union Facts & Figures, which provides statistical and factual information about the European Union. Each title in this series includes color photos throughout, and back matter including: an index and further reading lists for books and internet resources. Key Icons appear throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons in this series are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are set in boldfaced type in that chapter, so that readers are able to reference back to the definitions--building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text-Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis.
