
When massive antigovernment demonstrations erupted in Prague in November 1989, Havel became the leading figure in the Civic Forum, a new coalition of non-communist opposition groups pressing for democratic reforms.
In early December the Communist Party capitulated and formed a coalition government with the Civic Forum.
On 29 December 1989, Václav Havel, an opponent of Gustáv Husák’s Communist regime, is elected interim President of Czechoslovakia pending parliamentary elections.
Initially reluctant to take up the post, the playwright turned president guided his country to greater freedoms.

Vaclav Havel waves to a crowd of people from the balcony of Prague Castle

Václav Havel watching the results of the presidential elections (29 December 1989)

Vaclav Havel confirms the constitutional promise with his signature. (Author: ČTK)

Václav Havel with the Minister of National Defense, Lt. Gen. Miroslav Vacek.

Vaclav Havel greets his supporters in the courtyard of Prague Castle shortly his election. (December 29, 1989)

Václav Havel – presidential inauguration at Prague Castle (December 29, 1989)

Václav Havel – presidential inauguration at Prague Castle (December 29, 1989)
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