At the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, Tomas Masaryk and Eduard Benes represented the Czechs. Due to their skillful diplomacy, they were able to secure independence of the Hapsburgs on extremely advantageous terms. On October 28, 1918 The Republic of Czechoslovakia was formed out of the remnants of the Austrian-Hungarian empire: the former imperial provinces of Bohemia, Moravia, Silesia, Slovakia, and Ruthenia. They were also able to gain a large area of land, as well as the main section of the Austrian-Hungarian industry. For the next 20 years, this republic prospered politically, socially, and economically.

The government of Czechoslovakia was strong and stable for the 20-year duration of the first republic. The provisional constitution was adopted on November 13, 1918. It vested all the power in the National Assembly. The National Assembly was made up of 256 deputies, whom were elected by popular vote. This first national congress played a huge role in the success...