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~ A Look at the History of Associations for the Blind In compiling this work I utilised most of the professional literature, documents and journal contributions which had formed the basic groundwork of my research. Wherever possible, I accessed the sources that were nearest in time to the events described. I augmented this research with an account of the beginnings of the so-called movements for the blind, stretching back to the oldest periods. I describe the history of blind people's longings for mutual recognition, and their efforts to unite in congregations, brotherhoods, societies and associations up to the current situation in the Czech Republic and abroad. I even include information about movements for the blind on all continents. The contents are admittedly unbalanced, owing to the fact that the most reliable sources I found are those relating to Europe. Of particular interest are the facts gathered from ancient Egypt, China, Mesopotamia, Greece and Rome, etc. Furthermore, mention is given to Medieval brotherhoods, and the influence of upbringing and educational institutes for the blind on the origins of the associations. I give a description of the influence of religion, society, ideology and the economy on the development of associations for self-supporting blind people, and associations caring for them. I devote a special chapter to a description of the evolution of social organisations in this country. Contains: 65 pages of A5 format [ back to list of publications | back to main page ] |