An Outstanding Memoir of Hungary During World War II
History buffs who take an interest in central Europe and Hungary have long been at a disadvantage. The body of good works on Hungarian history remains largely in Hungarian. There are some great exceptions, of course, like Sir Bryan Cartledge’s work. But relatively speaking, really good stuff -- especially about the 20th century -- is difficult to find in English.
That's why I was excited to hear that Antal Ullein-Reviczky's memoir has just been published in English. German War - Russian Peace: The Hungarian Tragedy offers an account by a Hungarian diplomat who opposed the pro-Nazi regime that had been propped up by the Germans in occupied Hungary. He was also deeply wary of the Soviets. I read it not long ago in Hungarian, and it's a fascinating work. Translated from the original French by his daughter, Lovice Mária Ullein-Reviczky, it offers truly unique insight into the history of that era from World War II and early post-War.
You can find it on Amazon here. And here below is a short review by Peter Czink from the book jacket.
Ancient states are tempered through trial and adversity, and among these glorious nations Hungary remains a steadfast, glittering gem. A thousand years of introspection has yielded many heroes, and among them rests one of Hungary’s most forward thinking and sensitive citizens – Dr. Antal Ullein-Reviczky. His uniquely Hungarian story not only paints a poignant picture of his beloved homeland embroiled in 20th century conflict, it eloquently expresses the universal desire to protect and preserve what is most precious to us – liberty and security, for all human kind. Ullein-Reviczky’s influential life was particularly rich and diverse, yet he also represents a broader segment of society, those significant contributors to the betterment of humanity who seem to be overlooked. He was a key figure in Hungary during the Regency Period, and like many others, he is neither universally known, nor are his contributions fully appreciated in the non-Hungarian speaking world. His remarkable career deserves closer study – the man embodied a kind of sensitive heroism that never goes out of fashion, and is so necessary to every generation. The new edition of his memoirs, German War – Russian Peace, will bring to light this remarkable visionary’s ideals to the English speaking world. German War – Russian Peace, meticulously translated by the great man’s daughter Lovice, is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of the 20th century.
Peter Czink