Quality of a Leader

Where will the Hungarian soul take the nation from this point forward?

Hungarians have used their freedom to change governments well. In the second half of the 20th century Hungarians had very few opportunities to change governments. Since the change from the long time communist government led by János Kádár this tiny nation has made up for lost time. They have changed political leadership in every election since. The question is, when Hungarians vote, are they more interested in bringing in a new government or throwing out the old one? One can not help but think that Hungarians believe the Koszaj quote: “Politicians are like diapers, they both need changing regularly and for the same reason.”

One can not help but notice that in election campaigns Hungarian politicians also seemed to have learned the practice of politicians in any democracy: it is easier to make exaggerated criticisms of the opponent than to offer clear, concrete, and workable solutions to national and local problems. H.L. Menken said it well, “Under democracy one party devotes its chief energies to trying to prove that the other party is unfit to rule- and both commonly succeed and are right.”

This critical spirit especially seemed to dominate the 2002 elections. The election had very close results and it also seems to have divided the country. It was not unusual for Hungarians to get into heated arguments about political leadership even after the election already took place. After the election the bitter acrimony went on among politicians of the new ruling party and the once ruling party turned opposition. On July 4, 2002 a great protest by some who were against the new ruling party blocked the Elizabeth and Chain Bridges to keep traffic from going in and out of downtown Budapest saying that the election was unfair. There was some violence among the protesters and the police, as it seems the protesters did not want to let go so easily.

In one neighborhood söröző (local pub) the usually friendly patrons began screaming at one another and each group moved to a different side of the room and yelled insults back and forth at one another. When they asked me where I stood, I emphatically said, “I was not allowed to vote, I am not a Hungarian citizen!” I asked someone if this is normal in other places and he replied, “Unfortunately, it seems to happen everywhere after this election, even in families.”

It seems that Hungarians want two things: national security and economic prosperity. They have been overrun, their country cut up and the last war the Hungarian nation won is a distant memory. Hungarians want their freedom but they also want it to be a secure freedom that they can pass on to the next generations. For this Hungary needs national security. Hungarians want to be protected.

As a result of wars that overran their devastation on Hungarian soil, Hungary has been left economically destitute several times. Unlike in the west, where the Marshall plan set the western Europeans on the path toward economic recovery on a fast track after the Second World War, Hungary was dominated by a power that took the resources of Hungary away for ten years and put nothing back. After the revolution of 1956, things did improve but Hungary never had the direct investment to rise up to the economic level of the west. Now that Soviet style communism has gone bankrupt, former Soviet block countries are way behind in catching up to the economic standards of Western Europe. Whether industry was productive or not, communism guaranteed people jobs, a place to live, and stability until the system went bankrupt and could no longer sustain people. Under the new system nothing is guaranteed. Major investments by companies in regions where factories provide jobs are subject to the whim of the market and how well they can deliver corporate profits.

For example, in Zala County, Flextronics built a plant that employed 4,000 people and it looked like a long-term relationship between the company and the citizens who worked there. It was a great boost to the local economy. Flextronics found a cheaper labor contract in China for the same products and they quickly closed down the plant in Zala and left the region with a huge unemployment problem for Hungary to resolve.

This issue nags at the Hungarian soul, as the standard of living in Hungary is so much lower than neighboring countries to the west and northwest and even Slovenia in the south (which has a higher standard of living than Spain and Portugal). Although Hungarians are intelligent and can be hard workers when paid well, the pay scale even for those who are employed is so low that next door in Austria most jobs pay up to ten times the amount for the same work that Hungarians perform.

The housing boom in Budapest and other cities in Hungary shows that smart, hard working, urban and usually educated Hungarians who understand the market have done well. Some complain as well that the privileged in the past regime that had access to real estate and other advantageous opportunities in the change of the system placed themselves well in the new market. But what about the working class, the rural population and especially the elderly who have to live on meager pensions? For these groups the prices of the international market have soared like a jet fighter but their income has not come close to match the one – way inflation of price rises without wage increases to match them.

The basic measure of economic progress, the GDP and GNP shows promise for the future, but what about those who must wait out the present crisis? I asked a taxi driver once, “How is the life of a taxi driver?” He said, “It is not the real thing (Nem az igazi). Those who have an automobile don’t ride in a taxi, and those who do not have an auto don’t have money to take a taxi!”

This author believes that the Hungarian soul longs for economic prosperity and national security.

Are Hungarians asking for too much in too short of a time? Is it like the proverb that says, “The blackbird wants so much but his tail can’t bear it?” Is that after forty years of communism that bankrupted the state economically, motivationally, and morally, the economic, motivational, and moral capital is not yet enough to quickly move Hungary to the kind of situation Hungarians desire, even demand? Another proverb says, “You can only stretch out as far as your blanket goes.”

What does this say about the Hungarian soul? It seems to say from a surface glance that at this point in their history Hungarians seem to be clearer on what they do not want politically than on what they do. However, one thing does seem clear about what Hungarians do want. They want the freedom to choose who will or maybe more often who will not lead them.

Could it be, however, that below the surface there is something Hungarians clearly do want and when they keep changing their governments it is an indication that the previous governments failed to deliver it? Could it be with new freedom to choose political destiny they also have high expectations of those whom they choose to lead them toward their destiny? Maybe with freedom Hungarians demand reality rather than only promises from those who make the decisions for them.

How do Hungarians view the concept of leadership? What does a leader have to deliver for Hungarians to follow them from the heart rather than just doing their obligation and obeying the existing rules in order to get by? What is the ideal boss, both at work and in politics have to deliver? For Hungarians to follow a leader enthusiastically what will they put up with and what will they not put up with?

Of course every party and political boss has some loyal followers. But among the majority could it be those who voted for any major party do not seem to want to enthusiastically follow them into the future en masse but rather tolerate them hoping that something better will come along?

Once Dwight Eisenhower was talking to Winston Churchill about a strategic decision in that would hasten the end of World War II. They were in sharp disagreement, as Churchill wanted to change an earlier mutual decision. They argued long and hard over the issue, (while Churchill was in the bathtub) and Eisenhower insisted and would not change his position. Churchill replied, “Are you trying to take command over the Prime Minister of the British Empire?” Ike (Eisenhower’s nickname) replied, “No sir, I just want him to keep his word.” Churchill replied as a politician, “My dear Ike, that may be even more difficult!”

When Hungarians want someone to lead them out of the remains of forty years of communism do they want a Messiah or simply someone who will keep his word and give clear direction? You be the judge, my dear Hungarian reader.

Unlike many Americans, the Hungarians are very aware of their history. The American talk show host, Jay Leno, walked the streets of Los Angeles and showed pictures of great American heroes of the last two centuries and asked people if they could identify them. Very few came even close. Then he would show pictures of movie stars such as Julia Roberts and pop music stars such as Brittany Spears and people on the street showed instant recognition.

The Hungarian historical memory is aware of the great leaders of many centuries past and what they contributed. If modern leaders are mediocre in these qualities is it any wonder Hungarians will only follow them in a mediocre manner rather than wholeheartedly? The Hungarian leadership of these periods represents a treasure of quality character traits. Examples are justice and mercy such as that of Matthias, wisdom such as Deák, strength such as Wesselényi, purpose such as Kossuth, practicality such as Széchenyi, sacrifice such as the 13 generals of Arad and Petőfi, vision and creativity such as Matthias and Széchenyi, creativity, and inspiration such as Kölcsey, Petőfi, and Eötvös, and the intellectual depth of all of them.

Hungarians also know that when leaders of mediocre caliber controlled national politics and made it difficult for anyone with quality character to lead the nation they left the country in disarray and too often, crisis. It seems more realistic to assume that the modern Hungarian soul is not looking for Messianic leadership but longs for leadership that will address the problems of today with some form of the qualities they admire and expect from those who have lead them well in the past. The results of their leadership caused Hungary to become united. When Hungarians united they always made great leaps forward. And the two most appreciated results were national security and economic prosperity.

From Hungarian history what did revered leaders of the past do for the people to follow them enthusiastically? Two periods of Hungarian history show Hungarians looking back with pride and reverence upon the leaders of the nation. The almost mythical reign of King Matthias and the inspirational leadership of the poets and statesmen of the 19th century revolution, force those who want to assume leadership in today’s Hungary to look in the mirror. They must see how they measure up to this king and the revolutionary leaders. They were intellectuals, just, and merciful. Though lovers of peace, they were patriots who would sacrifice their lives when war was necessary. They were also generous, creative problem solvers, wise, free from corruption, and servants of the people rather than themselves. When they disagreed with other leaders they were still respectful of their opponents. They had great vision for the future, and served to bring economic development, national security, and freedom.

Though the following accounts may be common knowledge to Hungarians, for a foreigner studying Hungarian history they are a fascinating revelation. The legacy of ideals that Hungarians inherited from great leaders of the past in times of distress makes one understand why Hungarians may be reticent to lead or enthusiastically follow those who do. It also makes sense to note that most of Hungarian history is a dark sadness, therefore, the brief moments of light shine even brighter to the Hungarian soul.

The source this author used for most of the following accounts were from the English language book, The Spirit of Hungary, by István Sisa, who wrote his book for the purpose that English speakers may have the opportunity to understand the fascinating history of this fascinating nation. The accounts cited were verified through other sources to ascertain their veracity.

The reign of King Matthias
He was the surviving son of the great military hero, János Hunyadi. His father trained him well. He helped his father from age 12 to interpret and write confidential documents and developed a passion for history and foreign languages. Bishop János Vitéez, the bishop of Nagyvárad, tutored Matthias. As Matthias matured as a leader, his “out of the box” solutions to problems were way ahead of his time.

For example, he would only commit himself to war when absolutely necessary but from his father, knew how to win. But he also made peace with his enemies by showing magnanimity that was unheard of in his time. He was first and foremost a man of peace. He avoided the violence and brutality that was normal for his time. The Lord Himself said, “blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God”, and “blessed are the merciful for they shall be shown mercy.” The Biblical book of Proverbs also says that, “when a man’s ways are pleasing to the lord he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” One example was the conspiracy by his own tutor, Vitéz, to replace him with King Casimir of Poland. He defeated the plot successfully. But unlike other rulers of his time, instead of executing his old tutor he allowed him to spend his last days in house arrest.

When Casimir tried to invade Buda with an army of 80,000 against Matthias’ 8000 he took a very creative Hungarian solution. Rather than face them in open battle he split his forces in three parts. One stayed in the fortress of Buda, well supplied. He destroyed all outside sources of food and loot leaving the invading army with nothing but the supplies they brought which were inadequate. Another third harassed the enemy with guerilla warfare from the forest on Gellért Hill by appearing, wreaking havoc, and disappearing before the attacking army could regroup and deal with them. The other third met the enemy in a frontal attack outside of the castle but this unit used all of the artillery instead of keeping it in the city. They employed the artillery with a new tactic. Artillery was developed to break down walls of castles. Matthias used it against personnel instead and decimated the invaders in the frontal attack. The invading army, starved, harassed and decimated by artillery gave up. After the battle, Matthias’ response was to give each invading soldier enough food to be full and some for the journey home from the reserves of the Buda fortress!

He was also a renaissance intellectual. He was fluent in Hungarian, Latin, German, Greek, Romanian, Bohemian, and Italian. Together with his third bride, Beatrix, an Italian child of the Renaissance, they transformed the court of Buda into an intellectual center. Artists and scholars flocked to his court and found that they were not only welcome but also patronized. His Corvina library was world famous.

His Code of Laws was also revolutionary for its time, bringing more equality to all citizens and freeing peasants from the absolute ownership of the nobility. Under Matthias, the nobility was accountable for how they treated the peasants, which they resented and tried to circumvent. But Matthias enforced the code by checking on them. One account of his also holding the church in accountability to not rob the produce of peasants’ hard labor was Clause 41 of the code:

“We have ordained furthermore that the tithe – collectors must be satisfied with the oath of the tithe – payers. If they are not satisfied with it, it shall be in their power to examine the stacks. If they find more than the Peasant has declared, they shall take away the surplus and shall make him pay the tithes proper in addition.But if they find there exactly the amount the peasant has said, they shall pay him a gold piece as a compensation for the damage caused by upsetting the stack. If they deny payment of this, it shall be the peasant’s right to take away the horse of the tithe – collector. And that the peasant be able to to do so with greater ease and comfort, we ordain by this law that the tithe – collectors, before examining the stack, should dismount and tie up their horses in the court or house of the tithe – paying peasant. “

This law protected the peasants from the corruption of tithe – collectors that oppressed peasants of other countries.

The following account may be mythical, but even legend has roots in reality. It is regarding his journey to Kolozsvár where the king himself verified the treatment of the peasants by the nobility.

The Sheriff of Kolozsvár was known for making peasants chop wood for him without payment. King Matthias went into the city disguised as a common person and was forced by the sheriff to chop wood for him. King Matthias carved his initials into every log he split. The next day he made his official appearance into the city and the sheriff assured him that he was keeping the laws. Matthias showed him the wood he chopped without payment and humiliated the sheriff publicly as a lawbreaker and one who lied before the king.

After Matthias’ death, the resentful nobility returned to oppress and exploit Hungarian peasants with even more brutality than before. This continued on for several centuries and the Hungarian nobility was known as some of the hardest to give any concessions to the peasants who worked their land almost as slaves under their ownership.

For the person who is learning Hungarian history it is also amazing to learn how Hungary had progressed from the mid - 19th century to through the first decade of the 20th century. A great national awareness began to take place. During this awareness great leaders arose to the occasion that would plant their dedication, inspiration, and personal sacrifice into the national character. One Hungarian who awoke to his nationality was István, the son of the noble Count Ferenc Széchenyi. Since Matthias’ death the nobility of the time had little to do with the common people except to exploit their hard labor and grow rich off of what the land produced, leaving those who produced their wealth on a survival level.

Ferenc Széchenyi had a different view than his contemporaries toward the peasants that worked their land.

When visiting one of the family estates, he took his sons with him to meet a delegation of serfs who had come to greet their landlords. Count Széchenyi said, “Look at these serfs my dear sons. It is their work and sweat which produces the wealth that enables you to live according to your rank; never forget this and treat them accordingly. Always show them compassion, love, and gratitude. And to demonstrate this gratitude, step forward my sons. And kiss the hand of the oldest serf in this deputation.”

The nobility was concerned about their social status in the courts of Vienna and grew up speaking German rather than their own Hungarian language. Once a delegation of Hungarian Nador (magnates) visited the seat of the famous linguist, Cardinal Mezzofanti in Bologna. To welcome his guests he prepared a speech in Hungarian as a pleasant surprise for them. For one simple reason the Hungarian nobles were embarrassed and uncomfortable as he delivered the speech; they did not understand what he said!

The young István Széchenyi lived the lifestyle of young nobility as an officer in the Austrian Army and he himself knew little Hungarian. While at a social function in Paris he overheard two diplomats speaking about him. “One asked the other, “Who is that handsome Hussar officer?” The other replied, “A Hungarian magnate who is very witty but incredibly ignorant. It is a pity that he is wasting his talents and wealth aimlessly instead of using them to benefit his country.”

What Széchenyi heard shocked him into a sense of destiny and purpose to better his country. He dedicated himself to learn Hungarian and improve the development of his backward country. As he learned of the industrial revolution in England and the social progress it was bringing to Britain, he became an anglophile and studied the development of that country. He noticed that British economic progress came through industrialization and noted that Hungary had a long way to go and that the nobility would resist. He said that, “Feudalism does not like the smell of steam.” Széchenyi also was convinced that Hungary must develop a constitution so that rule of law rather than that of birth would establish justice for all citizens. His visit to England also began his passion for horse breeding.

From that point on he dedicated his life and energy to develop Hungary. He worked to unclog the Vaskapu (Iron Gate) of the Danube so that shipping could pass through, and worked to straighten the Tisza River. These greatly improved commerce in and through Hungary.

He noticed that the wealthy Hungarian magnates spent their fortunes abroad. To bring them and their money back home he developed horse racing and the national casino in Buda – Pest. He wrote in a letter, “Some of my friends would not like it if they found out that it was really them, and not the horses, that I endeavor to train.”

Széchenyi was serious about his rebirth when he overheard the conversation in Paris about how he should devote himself to benefit his country. He initiated building railroads in Hungary. The officer turned public servant involved himself in promoting and starting several other progressive projects. He introduced silk worm cultivation, steamship traffic on Lake Balaton, banking houses, promoted Hungarian wines, and helped to plan the first shipyard at Buda. He also helped in starting the large flourmill, which led Hungary to become the second largest milling center in the world after the milling center of Minneapolis, in the United States.

In 1825 he tried a revolutionary maneuver that astounded and inspired his contemporaries. He delivered a speech to the Upper house and then to the Lower House at the Diet of Pozsony in Hungarian. Until then, these meetings were held exclusively in Latin. In a five-sentence speech he committed a year’s income from his estates for developing the Hungarian language. Other aristocrats joined him and the result was the Hungarian Academy of Science (Magyar Tudományos Akademia).

Count Miklós Wesselényi was so impressed, he wrote, “What the fiery apostles of our language have been yearning for in vain, became a reality through the magnificent decision of a Hussar Captain who speaks only broken Hungarian.”

Széchenyi then wrote articles and then his famous work; Hitel (Credit) which proved that feudalism made normal commerce in Hungary irrelevant since right of birth outweighed the rights of one who properly purchased land. As one of the nobility these opinions were for the good of his country as he was willing to subject his own vast estates to the rule of property laws of a modern state and pay taxes commensurate with his income. The greatest tax burden was on the peasants and workers while nobles enjoyed exemptions from taxes.

His contemporaries, Lajos Kossuth and Miklós Wesselényi were more radical and revolutionary in their politics yet they honored and respected one another as fellow patriots with different opinions. When Kossuth and Wesselényi were arrested, Széchenyi appealed for their release and even humbled himself by kissing the hand of the Palatine when he promised to intervene for Wesselényi.

However, he suffered the weakness of many Hungarians- he was subject to depression. He entered into deep depression when he saw the shadow of war coming over Hungary. He was convinced that a revolution would not only be crushed but all the progress he worked so hard for would be eliminated and the country destroyed. He committed himself to a mental institution in Austria. When he felt all hope was lost, he was neither the first nor the last great Hungarian to take his life. Though he lost his own hope he passed it on to a grateful nation who through his vision and belief in the Hungarian people set the Hungary on a forward progress that changed the nation toward the future. As a visionary he looked forward and said, “Many people believe that Hungary belongs to the past, but I believe firmly that Hungary was not but will be (Magyarország nem volt, hanem lesz!).

Count Miklós Wesselényi, was the only surviving son of ten children. He was a churchman and preached a sermon at the Reformed Church in Zsibó at age 14. He was a great physical specimen like his father and excelled in riding, fencing, shooting and swimming.

He was a patriot and optimist. As a friend of Széchenyi, he often encouraged him out of pessimism and depression. He was a deep believer in God and while taking the Lord’s supper he wrote in his diary, “I consider this sacred ceremony an occasion to enter into an inner covenant with myself to strengthen my morals and thoughts to The Almighty and offers consolation to the sufferer.” His faith sustained him through grave trials of prosecution from the Austrian government for his patriotism and he endured sickness throughout his life. He stood up for peasants who were forced to serve in the Austrian army, often for lifetime service. He was willing to risk his own life to prevent the peasants from his estates being forcibly conscripted into the Austrian Army.

He requested Hungarians address the Emperor of Austria in their own language. He was a straight man who did not use intrigue and deceit.

His famous duel with Colonel Wurmbrandt proved him as a man of honor. Wurmbrandt was nearsighted so Wesselényi refused to fight with pistols though he was an excellent shot. This decision which could have cost him his life proved that he valued his honor more than his own life. He chose to fight with cavalry swords, though Wurmbrandt was the most famous fencer in the Austrian army. Wesselényi was wounded and had to pause to clean his blood, but delivered a fierce blow that severed four of Wurmbrandt’s fingers. The Austrian was left unfit for military service. Wesselényi demonstrated the mercy that has marked great Hungarians and offered the disabled colonel a position on his estates so that he would have a living. While fleeing from the government on trumped up charges he was in Budapest during the great flood of 1838.

He worked in rescue operations for 72 hours with no rest and rescued 600 people personally. Mihály Vörösmarty wrote about him in his work titled, “The boatman of the flood” (Az Árvizi Hajós). Afterward he was hounded by the Austrian government and sentenced to 3 years in prison. His health failed him and he went blind. He was then known as the blind giant.

Though blind and unable to enter battle, he was an inspiration to the revolution of 1848. His belief in God and his love and sacrifice for Hungarians and his honor and justice were expressed in his last speech:

“Misfortune has barred me from carrying a flag and throwing myself in the heat of the battle where the danger is the greatest and fighting is the most worthy. It is God who will decide whether our nation shall live or perish: but it is we who hold in our hands the honor of Hungary. Let us live for it or die for it, but we must remain Hungarians and a free nation up to our last breath.”

He took his last breath after a long illness in 1850.

If just the interesting lives of these last three heroes described were all Hungary had to look for in leadership qualities they would have a wealthy account to draw from. But other heroes with lives no less tragic but heroic in their own right create an example that the Hungarian soul has embraced as true leadership.

Lajos Kossuth worked tirelessly toward independence and unlike some of his contemporaries was unwilling to compromise on the terms of Hungarian freedom. He did not want freedom even with equality for the Hungarian people within the Austrian Empire but total independence. This became a danger to his life and he became a statesman and ambassador for Hungarian freedom in exile, traveling throughout Europe and the United States proclaiming the cause of Hungarian liberation. He was celebrated in foreign nations with great parades and was granted audience with kings and presidents. He lived to a ripe old age. But he, like other great Hungarians could not escape tragedy. Because of his radical and uncompromising stand he lived many of his best years and died in exile. His remains were only repatriated in the country he loved and lived for only years after his death.

The foreigner studying Hungarian history can not escape but to see how other great leaders of the time such as Count Gyula Andrássy and Ferenc Deák also greatly contributed to the development of the Hungarian nation. Every city in Hungary has streets and squares named after Széchenyi, Wesselényi, Kossuth, Andrássy, and Deák in recognition of how they used their high-born positions to advance the cause of the nation.

What set these leaders apart was that not only were they strong leaders but they displayed respect for one another and unity in the midst of their diverse opinions as to how Hungary should move forward. It can not be said enough that when Hungarian people are united, especially among their leaders, they take great leaps forward as a nation. It may be that the Hungarian soul is longing for this type of united leadership today in a time of transition and crisis.

It could be that the leadership of these statesmen and others were the wood that would burn as the fuel to the bonfire of Hungarian national awareness that finally led to a change in the name of the empire to be the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1868. However, something had to light the fire to set the solid wood aflame. If we follow this metaphor, the hot flame of revolution that was set to the fire and caused it to burn unquenchably would be the words of the poets and writers that inflamed the hot passion of national identity, independence, and freedom.

How about another metaphor? As a foreigner who tries to look into the Hungarian soul it seems that well placed words cause that soul to burn. If the Hungarian cause for freedom was a beautiful woman and the Hungarian language is a treasure of jewels, rightly placed words are like the proper arrangement of jewelry on a beautiful woman. They create an effect that dazzles and causes all attention to be drawn to her beauty and release a passion in men that cannot be quenched.

“Hungarians to your feet! Your homeland calls!” Talpra Magyar! Hí a haza!” The fiery words of Sándor Petőfi rouse Hungarians to this day when used properly and not to manipulate people politically. And Kölcsey’s “God bless the Hungarian…” still cause Hungarian men to shed tears without shame.

This is leadership by inspiration. The statesmen led by their high position and noble deeds and sacrifice. The poets and writers led by inspiring the common Hungarian to great deeds and sacrifice!

Once again the Hungarian love of freedom emerged beginning with radical and courageous steps in 1987, culminating with what would rock the whole world in 1989. This was not the work of a messianic leader but a consensus of many who while in leadership decided to respond to the mood of the people, not for their own political gain but the good of the country. István Sisa recorded the sequence of events in a very concise but factual manner in his book, “The Spirit of Hungary” (1990, Vista Books, P. 291-293).

Imre Pozsgay, a member of the Politburo wrote a document entitled “Turnabout and Reform” in 1987 that was one of the falling stones that catalyzed the avalanche to follow which changed the world. In it he wrote:

“Hungary’s backwardness is frightening, its technology outdated. The country’s entire Marxist system faces bankruptcy.

The backwardness of the Soviet Union, compared to Western technology, is even worse and keeps worsening day by day. They face a bigger bankruptcy than we do.

There is a crying need for economic reform, but such a reform is unimaginable without wide-ranging political reforms.”

In 1989 the reforms that swept Hungary opened the floodgates that brought Stalinist Communism to an end. Throughout Central and Eastern Europe and in the early 1990’s reached into Central Asia.

The following events in 1989 changed the world as Hungary opened its borders to East Germans wanting to go to West Germany and eventually this brought down the Berlin wall, the most symbolic act of the end of Stalinism as a world power. Then West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl said that, “It was Hungary who removed the first brick from the Berlin Wall.” The following sequence of events from January to October 1989 set not only Hungary but Central and Eastern Europe on an irreversible course.

January 11- Parliament approved feedom of assembly and association
February 11- the Communist Central Committee approved the creation of independent political parties and general elections.
March 17- Hungary pledged not to return refugees to their own countries (Hungary is still a haven for many refugees today, as far away as Africa and Asia).
May 2- Hungarian soldiers took down the barbed wire on the Austrian border
May 8- The Central Committee forced János Kádár to retire
May 30- Hungarian Communist Party (Socialist Workers’ Party) admitted that Imre Nagy was illegally executed for his role in the 1956 revolution.
June 16- Imre Nagy was reburied and received a public funeral.
September 19- Free elections were determined to be held in spring 1990.
October 7- The Communist party voted itself out of existence and became the Hungarian Socialist Party to compete in free elections with other political parties on an equal basis.

The November 1989 issue of DIE WELT published an article titled, “Thank you Hungarians.”

In the article István Sisa quotes, “When the first sections of barbed wire were cut and landmines cleared from the frontier, we did not yet foresee that this small break through a wall was to become such a big opening, a road to freedom for those who longed for liberty.

The Hungarian people’s readiness to help, the leniency of custom officers, and the government’s magnanimous suspension of formalities for crossing the border finally caused the DDR (German Democratic Republic- i.e. East Germany) to falter…

All these hardly could have been achieved without the Magyar’s opening of the Curtain. Small Hungary, which had already won the sympathy of the free world in 1956, again made history in 1989.

She deserves more from us than mere sympathy; the entire German nation ought to help her in a tangible way.”

Another remarkable feat is that this revolution took on a Hungarian characteristic. Needless blood was not shed. This would have brought great relief to István Széchenyi!
This revolution of 1989 that changed the world could claim the fourth and last lines of Tibor Tollas’ poem, “the 23rd of October (Oktober 23):

Once again, people leap to the light!
They conquer without a weapon!

Az ember újra fényre lép
Fegyver nélkül is győztesek!

The one nation no one expected to renege on Stalinist style communism was Romania. Ceausescu held an iron grip on Romania and with his feared securitatae no one imagined that things would change. But the Hungarians of Transylvania, in a Hungarian Reformed Church in Timisoara stood up to the dictator’s henchmen and by Christmas the avalanche took place in Romania, with much blood and loss of life. What Hungarians started, Romanians took over. By Christmas the dictator and his wife were executed in Bucharest.

Whenever Hungarians unite, the impact of this tiny people is felt by the whole world. However, except for special moments in history this unity seems to elude the Hungarian nation like a lizard in the jungle.

But why after such a start has the momentum faltered one decade later? It is true that Hungary has had very high quality leadership in its past. It is my observation that this has left them with high leadership standards. It seems that many Balkan nations seem to prefer a brutal and autocratic dictator who is a strong personality tell them what to do above their personal freedom. Hungarians are neither Balkan nor do they want to be dominated and never embraced this kind of leadership when it was imposed on them. The Hungarian is fiercely independent and has chosen death over domination more than once.

The standards of leadership that Hungarians hold as ideals may not be attainable in this day and age where the press serves as a microscope upon the public and private flaws of leaders. These qualities will at least not be perceived without showing the opposite side in any one person. They leave no stone unturned and these qualities will never stand to be undefiled against the flaws the press and opposition will reveal. However, in a team of leadership rather than one messianic leader, it is possible to have a collective treasure of leadership qualities much like in the time of the 1948 revolution.

Another problem that many foreigners noted is that Hungarians are reluctant to take leadership for fear of being criticized and unsupported by those whom they would lead. There seems to be good reason for this. For those who do lead, foreigners also noted it is hard for them to be decisive, knowing that whatever decision they take will be harshly criticized. Also, unlike those of Balkan and other mentalities, Hungarians do not follow a leader just because he is a strongman. Could it be because of such high ideals for leadership that few measure up to they do not want to be looked at through the lens of such high standards and found lacking?

Most Hungarians are very aware of their own and the weaknesses of others and would settle for quality leadership with a degree of the heroic ideals of past leaders if they delivered certain results of economic prosperity and continuing freedom and security. The direction that Hungary has taken toward these results are Hungary’s membership in NATO and membership in the European Union.

If Hungary follows in the wake of Ireland; they may be on a fast track toward rapid economic growth as members of the EU. So what is the negative side? Will Hungarians tolerate being led and ruled by European bureaucracy rather than their own vision and ideals? Hungary has rarely possessed economic and national security in its 1200-year history. Will Hungarians be satisfied when they trade economic and military sovereignty for economic and military security? Over the long haul will Europe and NATO be able to continually deliver these two precious commodities? You are the judge, my Hungarian reader; your national destiny is being formed.

The last time Hungary took these steps it worked apparent miracles in the short run. When Hungary became a partner in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the nation experienced explosive progress, prosperity, and growth. But, however equal Hungary was supposed to be, their soldiers and economy were in a definitely subordinate role to the Austrian monarchy’s interests. In the long term they were caught in conflicts that were not their own and ended up being dismembered, impoverished, looted, humiliated, and devastated.

In the 21st century, NATO’s wars will eventually become Hungary’s wars. “Hungarians to your feet! NATO calls! “Talpra magyar! Hí a NATO!” Hungary’s economy will be tied to that of Europe. The possibilities of short-term gains may be tremendous and Hungary could be on the verge of progress and growth that may surpass the turn of the 19th to the 20th century. But will this bind Hungary to the fate of other nations that will give and guarantee long term results of prosperity and security? Is it for sure that in the long term Hungarians themselves can not deliver these things?

NATO was formed to defend the West against Communism but did not have to fight in the forty year post World War II epoch of communism called the cold war. But after communism fell; NATO countries (especially America) went to war several times in devastating attacks in Europe, the Middle East and even Afghanistan! They not only have soldiers stationed in the former Soviet satellite nations but even in some of the former Soviet republics! Will these wars continue in the same frequency that they have in the last 13 years? Will the west always have the funds to rebuild what they have destroyed? How will this affect Hungary? You be the judge, my Hungarian reader.

Since the end of World War II, Western Europe has come from devastation and poverty to experience economic prosperity that appears to be permanent. But will it be? One thing is for sure as Hungary enters the EU; many decisions that were once made in Budapest will be made in Brussels. Hungary will have a subordinate role and will have to conform to policies and standards that others, not Hungarians will decide for them. If it always goes well, Hungarians may tolerate it and even find ways to get around them (they always have!). What was once Goulash communism may become Goulash EU-ism! But how will Hungary be able to solve the problem of a European economic collapse? Will those who make the decisions in Brussels have Hungarian interests in mind? You be the judge, my Hungarian reader.

On the other side, others must rebuild what they have destroyed. Hungarians did not destroy themselves; they only wanted to live in their own peace and prosperity. The misfortunes they suffered were forced by others, who were more rich and powerful than they were. Should not those who are more rich and powerful contribute to Hungary’s full restoration? Afterwards, should not Hungary have the choice to continue or discontinue the economic and military Alliances that take it up or down with them? Should not Hungary have the choice to extricate itself if the situation will become an inescapable whirlpool or a black hole?

The issue is not what, where, who, how, when, but why? Are Hungarians giving up on character? Would not a moral revolution, yes, a spiritual transformation of the nation provide more quality people from the pool of available leadership?

At this time of transition in the decade following the change of the system, why is it that Hungarians do not seem to have the unity that could lift the country out of what faces them? It seems that there is one force driving many people today and three reasons why. What seems to be pushing people is economics and with everyone out for him or herself unity is a distant reality, like a dream that seems so real until one awakens.

Obviously there is a large group of Hungarians who are simply trying to make a decent life for themselves and their family. They are hard working and making the best of their situation to construct a stable life with a future. But three other groups are in an economic storm.

One reason the storm is blowing for a significant portion of the population is simply survival. People need to eat, clothe themselves, and pay their electric, water, trash, and heating bills. This group often feels trapped in a whirlpool that is going under and talk in terms of desperation not knowing how they will make it from one month to another.

Another reason is because some people are in a hurry to get rich and let others know about it by their new cars, huge homes, and stylish clothes. These are people who may even agree that money does not buy happiness but would say, “Money does not protect me from grief. But I’d rather cry in a jaguar than in a bus.” Or in the case of some shaven-headed burly young men in Adidas training outfits, they would prefer a black BMW. When I see these young people my first thought is always, did any of them acquire this car by working a legitimate job?

This storm, the storm of greed, leaves in its devastation everyone who is caught in it. Those who profit from it do so with no concern for ethics or the consequences they leave behind from their dishonesty and lack of ethics. Through lawsuits, lying, and cheating they leave others devastated and empty while driving their new cars and decorating their homes. Unfortunately, the long term results of this kind of business may be good in the short term for those who profit from it but leave a large portion in a situation of distrust and fear. A stable economy works on credit and trust. When this does not exist it creates a situation where the rich get richer, the poor get poorer, and the middle class shrinks.

Another reason for the mad chase after material things is neither greed nor survival, but a feeling of status. Materialism is driving some of the young people as they are trying to catch up to the west. Some things, which are normal necessities for life, food, shelter, paying bills, and clothing, are driving people. Other things drive them that are non- – essentials. István, who is a butcher has a car but will not pursue a serious relationship with a girl until he has a nicer car and complains that girls will have nothing to do with him unless he has brand name shoes and clothes. What was once a great luxury many young people now consider a necessity for social acceptance.

The transition to a new capitalism is often inhuman. One problem of a capitalist economy is that honesty and the desire to get rich quick clash. The short-term solution of sacrificing integrity for profit takes a nation into long term poverty. The discipline of integrity will provide stability and confidence that every market needs to succeed in the long term.

One vicious circle that would be a humorous game if it were not so serious is the tax situation. The tax rates are so high, that many Hungarians cheat on their taxes. I am told that the government authorities assume that people are going to cheat on their taxes so they put the tax rates so high. Many seem to follow the opinion of the famous economist John Maynard Keynes, who said, “the avoidance of taxes is the only intellectual pursuit that carries any reward.”

I noticed once at a petrol station an interesting game. Business people would buy petrol and if they were owners of a business they would get an AFA (tax-exempt) receipt to write off the expense. When someone would pay in cash, the young man working at the cashier would wait till the cash-paying customer left. He would then fill out a tax receipt and give it to a businessman who would in turn give the young man a handsome tip. The young cashier and the businessman had their own tax write off business going! So many business people have said that if they paid every required tax they could no longer stay in business. It seems that often dishonesty inside an economy can do the harm of an enemy who devastates the country from outside. Most business people would go along with the Koszaj wit, that the Eiffel tower is the Empire State Building after taxes.

The great American economy was deeply wounded after the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11th 2001. The nation united, however, and the recovery was beyond the expectations of most economists. Less than one year later, the dishonesty of giant companies such as Enron, Arthur Andersen, World Com, and Xerox became public. The following scandals brought thousands of people to poverty. Lifelong jobs and retirement savings disappeared in a day. What Osama Bin Laden could not do with a terror attack, dishonest executives and accountants accomplished through lack of integrity. The stock market dropped quickly and many more that did not work for the dishonest companies but had investments that were related to those firms lost money.

Many thought that Americans would lead the way to a transition into a new economic world but even where things like stability and open transactions were part of the business culture the lack of character in business leaders has caused great damage. Unless great reforms take place, how will Americans lead the way?

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