What Was Hungary in Ancient Times?

Hungary, a country located in Central Europe, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The region that is now known as Hungary was inhabited by various tribes and cultures, and its history is intertwined with the history of the surrounding regions.

Early Inhabitants:
The earliest known inhabitants of Hungary were the Celts who settled in the region around 400 BC. They were followed by the Romans who conquered the region in 9 AD. The Romans established Aquincum, which later became the capital of Pannonia Inferior, one of the provinces of the Roman Empire.

The Migration Period:
In the 4th century AD, Hungary became part of the Migration Period when various Germanic and Hunnic tribes invaded Europe. The Huns ruled over Hungary until their defeat by the Ostrogoths in 454 AD. After this, various tribes such as Avars, Slavs and Bulgars settled in Hungary.

The Magyar Conquest:

In 896 AD, a tribe known as Magyars (also called Hungarians) invaded Hungary and established their rule over the region. They established a powerful state with a well-organized military and administrative system.

The Árpád Dynasty:

The Magyars were ruled by a dynasty known as Árpáds who expanded their territory to neighboring regions such as Transylvania, Croatia and Serbia. During their rule, Hungary became an important power in Europe and played a significant role in European politics.

Turkish Rule:

In 1526, Hungary was invaded by Ottoman Turks who defeated the Hungarian army at Mohács. This led to nearly two centuries of Turkish rule over Hungary.

  • Habsburg Rule:
  • In 1686, Austrian forces led by Prince Eugene of Savoy liberated Hungary from Turkish rule. Hungary then became part of the Habsburg Empire and remained so until the end of World War I.

  • Modern Day Hungary:
  • After World War I, Hungary became an independent nation and established a democratic government. However, it was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II and later by the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Hungary has a rich history that spans over thousands of years. From its early inhabitants to its conquest by various tribes and empires, Hungary has undergone significant changes over time. Today, it is a modern European country that is known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and vibrant economy.