The Country history
Hungary boasts of a rich and varied history, one that stands apart from those of its neighbouring countries. Prior to World War I, Hungary joined with Austria to form the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The outcome of the war brought an end to this union in 1918, devastating the population, and resulting in the loss of much of Hungary's territory. In World War II, Hungary joined Germany hoping to reclaim the lands lost in the previous world war. Early in 1945, the German forces in Hungary were defeated by the Soviets. The Soviet victory foreshadowed the onslaught of the communist regime that was to rule Hungary for the next four decades.
In 1989, the ruling communist party in Hungary fell from power after the Soviets could no longer provide economic assistance. A multi-party parliamentary democracy came into being in the country. Hungary joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004. |
