The Czechoslovak government-in-exile was established during World War II after the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia. It was formed in 1939, primarily in France and later in London, to represent the interests of Czechoslovak citizens and to advocate for the country's liberation from foreign control. Led by Edvard Beneš, the government-in-exile worked to gain international support and recognition. It collaborated with the Allied Powers and played a significant role in promoting the idea of a free and independent Czechoslovakia after the war, ultimately contributing to the country's restoration in 1945.