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Hungary Since 1945: Routledge Histories of Central and Eastern Europe

Dillon Hayes

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Hungary has a long and complex history, and the period since 1945 has been particularly tumultuous. The country was occupied by the Soviet Union from 1945 to 1990, and during this time it was subjected to a harsh communist regime. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Hungary transitioned to a democracy, but it has faced a number of challenges, including economic instability, political corruption, and social unrest.

Hungary since 1945 (Routledge Histories of Central and Eastern Europe 1)

Hungary since 1945 (Routledge Histories of Central and Eastern Europe Book 1)

by Shey Stahl

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2632 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	234 pages

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Hungary's history since 1945. It covers a wide range of topics, including the country's political, economic, and social development. The book also examines Hungary's relations with its neighbors and with the wider world.

The Communist Era

The Soviet Union occupied Hungary in 1945, and the country soon became a satellite state of the USSR. The Hungarian Communist Party, led by Mátyás Rákosi, established a totalitarian regime that suppressed all forms of dissent. The regime also collectivized agriculture and nationalized industry.

The communist regime was deeply unpopular, and in 1956 there was a nationwide uprising against it. The uprising was brutally crushed by the Soviet Union, but it led to some concessions from the regime. In 1968, János Kádár became the leader of Hungary. Kádár introduced a series of reforms that made the regime more tolerant and allowed for some economic liberalization.

The Transition to Democracy

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1990 led to the end of communist rule in Hungary. The country held its first free elections in 1990, and the Hungarian Democratic Forum, led by József Antall, won a majority of seats in parliament. Antall formed a coalition government with the Alliance of Free Democrats and the Independent Smallholders' Party.

The transition to democracy was not easy. The country faced a number of economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment. The government also had to deal with the legacy of communist rule, including corruption and a lack of transparency.

Hungary in the 21st Century

In 2004, Hungary joined the European Union. The country has made significant progress since then, and it is now one of the most prosperous countries in Central and Eastern Europe. However, Hungary has also faced a number of challenges in recent years, including the global financial crisis and the refugee crisis.

Hungary is a complex and fascinating country with a rich history. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Hungary's history since 1945, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand this important country.

Hungary has come a long way since the fall of communism in 1990. The country has transitioned to a democracy, joined the European Union, and made significant economic progress. However, Hungary still faces a number of challenges, including corruption, political instability, and social unrest. Despite these challenges, Hungary is a vibrant and dynamic country with a rich history and culture.

Further Reading

Hungary since 1945 (Routledge Histories of Central and Eastern Europe Book 1)

by Shey Stahl

4.5 out of 5