After the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe, Czechoslovakia found itself at a crossroads, particularly concerning its national identity. The parliamentary debate that ensued over the name of the country highlighted the complex relationship between the Czech and Slovak peoples. On one hand, there were factions advocating for the traditional name, 'Czechoslovakia,' which symbolized unity between the two nations. Conversely, another group pushed for the designation 'Czech and Slovak Federal Republic,' believing this would better represent the distinct identities and aspirations of both nations. The parliament's inability to reach an agreement on the official name led to political tension, as these discussions encompassed deeper issues surrounding autonomy, governance, and national pride. The 'Hyphen War' became symbolic of the growing discord between Czechs and Slovaks, reflecting broader trends in Central and Eastern Europe where ethnic identities were being redefined in light of the collapse of authoritarian regimes. This discord would eventually contribute to a peaceful split in 1993, leading to the establishment of the Czech Republic and Slovakia as independent states. Thus, the struggle over the name was not merely a bureaucratic issue but intertwined with national consciousness, self-determination, and the legacies of Communist rule. The discourse played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Czechoslovakia as it transitioned from a single-party system to a democratic framework. Moreover, the outcome influenced legislative processes and national policies in both emerging states following the eventual dissolution of Czechoslovakia.