What is Sokol?

Sokol was organized in Prague, Czechoslovakia by Dr. Miroslav Tyrs and Jindrich Fuegner on January 27, 1862, when seventy-five charter members drafted and ratified a constitution based on principals of democracy. Because of these democratic principals, Sokol in Czechoslovakia no longer exists, but is in exile in other parts of Europe.

The literal translation of the word "Sokol" is "falcon". It is a bird that has a keen and perceptive eye, is strong of wing, delights in soaring the high heavens, and is courageous. It was therefore, a fitting name and emblem for this new organization.

The Sokol organization is an educational association. Its aim is to train and preserve the youth in physical, mental and moral strength. It concerns itself with both body and mind, never losing sight of the inseparable character of the two.

The Sokol idea was brought to the United States only three years after it originated in Czechoslovakia. The first American Sokol Unit was organized in St. Louis in 1865 and from this single unit has grown an organization now known as the American Sokol Organization.