The Czechoslovak National Council was established in 1916 during World War I to represent the interests of Czechs and Slovaks seeking independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It aimed to promote national identity and self-determination, working closely with the Allies to gain support for the cause of Czechoslovak independence. Led by figures like Tomáš Masaryk and Edvard Beneš, the council played a crucial role in advocating for the creation of an independent Czechoslovakia. Its efforts culminated in the recognition of Czechoslovakia as a sovereign state in 1918, following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.