The Holocaust in Hungary: Part 10 of 15

In this post, we will delve deeper into the Holocaust in Hungary, exploring the experiences of Hungarian Jews during this devastating period of history.

 

The Jewish Population in Hungary

Before World War II, Hungary had one of the largest Jewish populations in Europe, with over 800,000 Jews living in the country. The majority of Hungarian Jews lived in Budapest, the capital city.

The Beginning of the Holocaust in Hungary

In March 1944, German forces occupied Hungary and began implementing plans to deport the Jewish population to concentration camps. Over the course of just a few months, Hungarian Jews were rounded up, forced into ghettos, and deported to the death camps in Nazi-occupied Poland.

Collaboration with the Nazis

The Hungarian government, led by Admiral Miklós Horthy, actively collaborated with the Nazis in the deportation of the Jewish population. The Hungarian Arrow Cross Party, a fascist organization, played a key role in implementing anti-Jewish measures and carrying out deportations.

Resistance and Rescue Efforts

Despite the overwhelming odds, there were some resistance and rescue efforts carried out by both Jews and non-Jews. The Jewish Council in Budapest, led by Rudolf Kastner, negotiated with the Nazis to try and save as many Jews as possible. The Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg also played a key role in rescuing Jews in Hungary, issuing protective passports and sheltering them in safe houses.

Aftermath and Legacy

By the end of the war, over 500,000 Hungarian Jews had been murdered in the Holocaust. This represents the highest death toll of any country in proportion to its pre-war Jewish population. The legacy of the Holocaust in Hungary continues to impact the country to this day, with ongoing efforts to preserve the memory of those who perished and educate future generations about the dangers of hatred and prejudice.

Conclusion

The Holocaust in Hungary was a tragic and devastating period in the country's history, with the majority of its Jewish population being systematically murdered by the Nazi regime. However, there were also stories of resistance and rescue efforts that provide hope and inspiration in the face of such unimaginable cruelty.