The History of Hungary: the Beginning [1/15]

Hungary is a small but mighty country located in Central Europe. Its history is long and complex, dating back thousands of years. In this 15-part series, we will delve into the fascinating and often overlooked history of Hungary. So, grab a snack, settle in, and let's start at the beginning.

History of Hungary

The Early Years

The first humans in what is now Hungary arrived around 500,000 years ago. These early inhabitants were nomadic hunter-gatherers who survived by hunting animals and foraging for food. They left behind few artifacts, but evidence of their existence has been found throughout the country.

 

Around 4000 BCE, the first permanent settlements began to appear in the region. These early communities were made up of farmers who grew crops and raised animals. They built simple houses and used primitive tools to farm the land.

Over the next few thousand years, the region that is now Hungary was inhabited by a number of different tribes and ethnic groups. These groups included the Celts, the Romans, and the Huns, among others.

The Magyars

In the late 9th century, a new group arrived in the region - the Magyars. The Magyars were a nomadic people from the east who quickly established themselves as a major force in the region. They were skilled horsemen and fierce warriors who built a powerful empire that spanned much of Central Europe.

 

Under the leadership of their first ruler, Arpad, the Magyars began to consolidate their power in the region. They conquered neighboring tribes and established a unified state that would eventually become the Kingdom of Hungary.

The Kingdom of Hungary

The Kingdom of Hungary was officially established in the year 1000 when Stephen I was crowned king. Stephen I is now considered the founder of Hungary and is revered as a national hero.

Under Stephen I, Hungary became a Christian kingdom and began to develop a strong central government. The king was assisted by a council of nobles who helped to govern the country.

Over the next few centuries, Hungary grew and prospered. It became a major power in Europe and was known for its rich culture and artistic achievements. However, this prosperity was not without its challenges.

The Ottoman Empire

In the 16th century, Hungary was invaded by the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans were a powerful force who had already conquered much of Eastern Europe. They saw Hungary as a key strategic location and launched a series of brutal invasions that devastated the country.

For over 150 years, Hungary was under Ottoman rule. During this time, the country was forced to pay tribute to the Ottomans and was subjected to harsh taxes and military conscription. Many Hungarians were killed or enslaved, and the country's economy and culture suffered greatly.

The Habsburgs

In the late 17th century, Hungary was liberated from Ottoman rule by the Habsburgs, a powerful dynasty that ruled over much of Europe. The Habsburgs saw Hungary as a valuable ally and worked to modernize the country and bring it into the fold of European civilization.

Under Habsburg rule, Hungary became a constitutional monarchy with a complex system of government. The king was assisted by a council of nobles, and the country was divided into counties that were governed by local officials.

To wrap up...

The early history of Hungary is a fascinating tale of migration, conquest, and cultural exchange. From the first hunter-gatherers to the powerful Magyar empire and the subsequent Kingdom of Hungary, the country has a rich and complex past.

In the next installment of this series, we will explore the 18th and 19th centuries, a time of great change and upheaval in Hungary's history. Stay tuned