Chods
Chodové (Walkers, also Patrollers or Rangers) was a group of people in Bohemia, mainly in the surroundings of Domažlice, Tachov and Přimda. They were displaced from one of the Polish regions (possibly Silesia) to guard the borders between Bohemia and Bavaria. They were direct servants of the king with significant privileges that differentiated them from other inhabitants. Their descendants still live in the surroundings of Domažlice. They speak a very special dialect of Czech and enjoy unique and strong traditions and have some special music instruments.
In 1325, the King of Bohemia, John of Luxembourg, acknowledged the rights of the Chodové people to use the woods of northern Bohemia, provided that they also protected the borders along them. The Chodové used dogs (Chodský Pes) to help accomplish this goal. For centuries the agreement held, until W.M. Laminger canceled it in the late seventeenth century. The Chodove revolted in 1693, but were unsuccessful.
Notable people
- Jan Sladký Kozina - legendary revolution leader in 17th century
Books
- Psohlavci written by Alois Jirásek and Published in 1961
The Chodove People - The English version of Psohlavci is available at this website, along with historical and current information on the Chod and their descendants.