Historical Encyclopedia
The history of Hungary begins in ancient times. The first settlements in the territory of the modern state emerged as early as the Stone Age. Around 2000 BC, tribes that engaged in agriculture and livestock farming inhabited this area.
In the 1st millennium BC, Celtic tribes settled in the territory of Hungary. During this time, the region became part of the Roman Empire, which contributed to the development of trade and culture. However, after the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, Hungarian lands became targets for raids by various peoples.
Modern Hungarians, or Magyars, began migrating to Central Europe in the 9th century. They were a nomadic people originating from the Ural region. In 895, the Magyars, led by Árpád, crossed the Carpathians and began to settle new territories.
By the end of the 9th century, the Magyars had established control over a significant part of Pannonia and founded their first state. In 1000, Hungarian Prince Stephen I was crowned as king, and Hungary became a kingdom.
During the Middle Ages, Hungary experienced a period of prosperity. King Stephen I introduced Christianity, which contributed to the strengthening of the state and its integration into European cultural and political life. His reign is considered the beginning of Hungarian statehood.
However, in the 13th century, Hungary faced threats from outside, particularly from the Mongols, who destroyed many cities in 1241. Nonetheless, the country rebuilt and continued to develop, especially in the 14th and 15th centuries under the rule of the Angevin dynasty.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Hungary became a battleground between the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburgs. In 1526, the Hungarian army suffered a devastating defeat in the Battle of Mohács, and much of the country fell under Ottoman control.
Ottoman rule lasted for more than 150 years, and this period had a significant impact on the culture and society of Hungary. However, by the end of the 17th century, Hungarians began uprisings against the Ottomans, and in 1686 Buda was liberated.
After liberation from the Ottomans, Hungary came under Habsburg control. Throughout the 18th century, Hungary developed as part of the Austrian monarchy, and during this time, national movements emerged seeking autonomy and independence.
In 1848, a revolution broke out in Hungary, but it was suppressed by Austrian and Russian troops. Nevertheless, in 1867 Hungary gained equal status as a member of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
In the early 20th century, Hungary faced serious political and social changes. World War I ended in disaster for the country — as a result of the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, Hungary lost significant territories.
After the war, economic problems and political instability arose in the country, leading to the establishment of an authoritarian regime. World War II also brought suffering, and Hungary came under the control of Nazi Germany. After the war, the country was liberated by the Soviet Union.
After the fall of the communist regime in 1989, Hungary began the transition to democracy and a market economy. In 2004, the country joined the European Union, opening up new prospects for development.
Today, Hungary is an important player on the European stage, preserving a rich cultural heritage and striving for integration into the international community. However, like many countries, Hungary faces challenges such as migration, economic issues, and political disagreements.