Monika Tresová: Rudolf Fiby - silent freedom fighter

Rudolf Fiby was a real intellectual fighting for human rights and freedom, not just a scientist with unique mathematical talent. His interest in philosophy, art, history and fine literature not only influenced him in his daily life but also inspired his political thinking. Although many people describe him as a quiet person, his deliberate words and charismatic demeanour enabled him to communicate intelligently and influence many people. As a creator of samizdat publications, he was not afraid to criticize government power. His influence on society also confirms our archival research, thanks to which we describe the ŠtB's concerns about his impact on people's thinking, which are listed in official documents. Fiby's actions show that he was considerably courageous as he did not hesitate to sue the university that terminated his employment because of his religious beliefs. Even later, the failure did not deter him from speaking out on the serious issues of that time. A short but firm statement "I have the candle and the taste" encouraged the members of the Fatima Community, of which he was chairman at the time, to protest boldly against the conditions in Czechoslovakia at the time, despite the threat of arrest. The social question and the position of the workers remained important to him even after the Gentle Revolution, which proves that he was never indifferent to human rights.