Stereotypes and Folklore in the Language of Populist Politicians in Slovakia after 1989 and 1993

The author draws attention to the problem of the language of populist politicians in connection with historical memory. When referring to the most frequently used stereotypes in the politica language, the author argues that stereotypes are double-edged swords in politics. On the one hand, they can be misused in manipulating public opinion and electors. At the same time, in order to achieve political aims it is necessary to make them explicit. Stereotypes serve to ach not only political aims, but if they are ignored in political discourse and practice, they can becom a 'trap' for politicians, regardless of the greatness and usefulness of ideas that they advocate.