The Czech Republic is one of Europe's most secular states - some say that Atheism became the state's religion. The reason that the majority of Czechs is considered not to believe in a god lies in the Czech history.
Historically, the Czech Republic was viewed as a Protestant country; however, it is now mostly remembered as Catholic due to the control of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. When the empire fell, both a strong sense of Czech nationalism and indifference to the church arose amongst the people. Catholicism was seen as too strong an Austrian influence and a reminder of the country’s turbulent history.
This indifference was further amplified by the communist regime, which was strongly against any religion and promoted atheism. Being religious limited people's freedom and life security. This political influence had such an impact on Czech people that they started to hide their religious beliefs. To be an atheist became a popular non-conflict stand-point. However, it is also a result of ignorance.
Although, there still is an aversion to religion and the prevailing response is scepticism, half of the Czech population nowadays believes in some kind of higher power.
Religion is still a sensitive topic and the reaction of most people is reserved and suspicious. The attitude of not inclining either to be or not to be a believer is very well illustrated by a Czech fictional character, Jára Cimrman, and his feelings about religion: "I am such an utter atheist, that I am afraid God will punish me".