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Name Origin

Karel is a Czech masculine given name, a variant of Charles. It derives from the Germanic name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'man'.

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Famous People

Karel Čapek (1890-1938)

Writer

  • Coined the term 'robot'
  • Wrote influential science fiction and dystopian novels
  • Prominent figure in Czech literature

Karel Gott (1939-2019)

Singer

  • Known as the 'Golden Voice of Prague'
  • Sold over 30 million records worldwide
  • Highly influential figure in Czech popular music

Karel Poborský (1972-)

Footballer

  • Won the UEFA Champions League with Manchester United in 1999
  • Played for the Czech Republic national team

Karel Schwarzenberg (1937-)

Politician

  • Served as Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic (2010-2013)
  • Member of the European Parliament (2004-2009)
  • Descendant of a prominent aristocratic family