Hungary during the cold war

Who is Russia?

Where is Hungary?

WarSaw Pact

• Defense treaty among 8 communist states
• Central and Eastern Europe
• Established in 1955

Political Relationship

• USSR and Hungary did not get along
• Hungary did not want to join Warsaw Pact
• USSR used extreme authoritarian leadership

Economic Relationship

• Hungary had to pay $300 million for postwar debt
• Money went to USSR to enhance soviet support
• Standard of living fell in Hungary due to lack of money

Military Relationship

• Strong military tension
• Hungary could not do anything against Soviets approval
• USSR would use strong military action if something happens

Social Relationship

• No social relationship
• USSR just took over and made their own rules
• Hungarian people started intellectual forums
• Forums called Petőfi circles, attracted people
• Started idea of revolution

Hungarian revolution

• October 23, 1956 marked the beginning of the revolution
• Hungarians began protesting
• Kept chanting that they didn't want to be slaves any longer
• Demonstrations were held
• Protests were held at major government buildings and statues

Soviet Invasion

• October 24, Soviet tanks entered Hungary
• Tanks acted as a barricade
• "Rebels" began attacking the Communist Party government building
• Many little fights took place
• Fighting lasted until November 11.

End Result

• 2,500 people dead
• 20,000 wounded
• Soviets kept power
• Many of the protestors were exciled or imprisoned