Gustáv Husák (1913-1991) was a Slovak politician and statesman who served as the President of Czechoslovakia from 1975 to 1989. He was a key figure in the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape during the Cold War era.
Husák was born in Moravian Slovakia and joined the Communist Party in 1933. He rose through the ranks of the party, becoming a member of its Central Committee in 1945 and later serving as its General Secretary from 1969 to 1987. During this time, he was also a member of the National Assembly and held various government positions, including Prime Minister from 1969 to 1970.
In 1975, Husák was elected as President of Czechoslovakia, succeeding Ludvík Svoboda. He held this position until his resignation in December 1989, following the Velvet Revolution that brought an end to communist rule in Czechoslovakia. During his presidency, Husák implemented policies that aimed to maintain stability and control within the country, but also faced criticism for suppressing dissent and limiting civil liberties.
Husák's legacy is complex and controversial.
