Behold Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk 1850-1937 Statue. Why does this monument of a Czech leader stand here in Mexico City? It seems an unlikely pairing. But the story of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk Statue reveals a deep respect between two nations.
President Lázaro Cárdenas named Avenida Presidente Masaryk after Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk in 1936. Cárdenas wanted to honor Masaryk as a symbol of democracy and equality. This was especially poignant because democracy was threatened in Europe at the time. So the avenue became a tribute to Masaryk’s ideals.
But where did Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk come from? He was the first president of Czechoslovakia. He served from 1918 to 1935. Masaryk is considered the founding father of Czechoslovakia. He was a philosopher a sociologist and a key figure in Czech independence.
Later in 2000 Prague donated a statue of Masaryk to Mexico City. It is one of two originals made for the 150th anniversary of his birth. The statue for Prague Castle was being prepared at the same time. The Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk Statue was placed at the intersection of Avenida Presidente Masaryk and Arquímedes Street. This roundabout has become a focal point for Czech-Mexican relations. It is a meeting place for the Czech community in Mexico.
The Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk Statue stands three meters tall. The statue is larger than the 1931 original by Otakar Španiel. Academic sculptors Josef Vajce and Jan Bartoš created the new bigger statue.
Avenida Presidente Masaryk is often called the “Fifth Avenue of Mexico”. It is known for its luxury boutiques. You can find international brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton here. The street is a major shopping destination. In 2013 the street was renovated to make it more pedestrian-friendly.
Beyond the Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk Statue and the avenue Czech influence extends to Mexican music. Tejan is a music style that blends Mexican European and U.S. influences. It began when Czech German and Polish immigrants introduced the accordion. The use of brass instruments and polka and waltz tunes also shows Czech influence. Even some Pilzner-style beer reflects Czech heritage.
So as you stand before the Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk Statue remember it represents more than just a man. It embodies the shared values of democracy and equality. It symbolizes the enduring friendship between the Czech Republic and Mexico.