In December, 1967, the hidden conflicts within the Communist Party emerged when stories about mysterious deaths and false charges in the Slansky trial emerged. Alexander Dubcek succeeded former President Novotny and made public some of the corruption that had been taking place under Novotny. However, the Czechoslovak enthusiasm for Dubcek's plans to liberalize and democratize the country were soon suppressed by the Soviets. On August 21, 1968, Soviet troops arrived in Prague and Communist power was restored.

To appease Czechoslovakia after the uprising led by Dubcek now known as the Prague Spring, the Soviets began a program to improve the widespread declination of the level of the quality of life. Changes such as improved standard of living, more consumer goods available, increased car ownership, better roads and a new subway system in Prague took place. Intellectuals, however, were wary of these changes and their protest of the Soviet invasion continued. These "intellectuals" - including musicians, philosophers, writers and artists - were arrested and jailed on many occasions, leading to further protest. One leader among them, Vaclav Havel, became a spokesperson for the group and was outspoken against a government based on lies.

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