Relations between Czechoslovak and Dutch architectural avant-gardes in the first half of the 20th century and the role of Congrès International d'Architecture Moderne (CIAM) in these relations

This thesis compares the development of the Czechoslovak and Dutch architectural avant-gardes from the end of the 19th century until the first half of the 20th century. The impact of Dutch architecture on Czechoslovak architecture has never been denied but on the other hand it has never been clearly documented. This thesis studies the work and life of architects selected according to their artistic and social contribution to Czechoslovak- Dutch relations. It reconstructs the web of interconnections between the countries by using findings and information obtained during the research. The Congrès International d'Architecture Moderne (CIAM) has a prominent role in these developments. CIAM represents an international architectural discussion platform for all European avant- gardes. Although there existed cooperation between Czechoslovak and Dutch groups for several years, the mutual relation between the groups weakened after both of them had joined the CIAM. This thesis describes not only the mutual interactions but also explains the reason of their vanishing. The development of architecture is analyzed in the context of a historical framework encompassing several critical milestones of our history. Social, ecological, political and cultural determinants, which are presented on the basis of the..