History Daily The Assassination of the Butcher of Prague
May 27, 2025
On May 27, 1942, the courage of Czechoslovakian resistance fighters shines through as they embark on a daring mission to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, a key figure behind the Holocaust. The tension escalates as they navigate dangers and face grim consequences following the attack. Their desperate stand in the Cathedral of St. Cyril and Methodius highlights the sacrifices made in their fight against Nazi oppression. This tale reveals both the bravery of the resistance and the tragic cost of rebellion in the face of tyranny.
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Heydrich Assassination Attempt
- Two Czechoslovak operatives attacked Reinhard Heydrich by ambushing his car in occupied Prague on May 27, 1942.
- Heydrich was severely wounded by a grenade blast and shot by one assassin before collapsing to the ground.
Czech Operatives Parachute In
- Jan Kubitsch and Josef Gabczyk parachuted into Nazi-occupied Prague as part of Operation Anthropoid.
- They were specially trained to assassinate Heydrich and ignited hope for the Czech resistance.
Jan's Escape and Injury
- After ambushing Heydrich, Jan Kubitsch fled on bicycle, injured and pursued by Nazis.
- He found shelter with a doctor who treated his wound, but the mission seemed to have only wounded, not killed Heydrich.