The term "Velvet Divorce" refers to the peaceful and non-violent separation of the former Czechoslovakia into two independent countries: the Czech Republic and Slovakia. This split occurred on January 1, 1993, following a series of political discussions and negotiations that began after the fall of communism in 1989. The separation was characterized by a lack of conflict, which is why it is termed "velvet," echoing the peaceful nature of the Velvet Revolution that led to the end of communist rule. Both nations have since developed their own political and economic systems while maintaining friendly relations.