Today in History - 23rd October
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Today in History - 23rd October23rd October 1956 - Hungarian Revolution begins in Budapest69 years ago today, the Hungarian Revolution began in Budapest, as thousands of students and workers took to the streets to demand freedom, democracy, and an end to Soviet domination. Whilst the demonstration initially started as a peaceful protest, it quickly escalated into a full-scale national uprising. The demonstrators called for the withdrawal of Soviet troops, free elections, and the reinstatement of reformist leader Imre Nagy. That evening, when the crowd attempted to broadcast their demands, secret police opened fire, sparking violent clashes across the capital. Within days, revolutionaries seized weapons, tore down Soviet symbols, and forced the government to collapse. Soviet tanks initially withdrew, and it seemed like Hungary was on the verge of freedom from communist rule. However, on 4th November, Soviet forces returned in overwhelming numbers, crushing the revolution after weeks of fierce resistance. Thousands were killed or arrested, hundreds of thousands fled into exile, and Nagy was sentenced to death, being executed in June 1958. Communist rule in Hungary would carry on for another 41 years. Like what you read - Why not share this link and tell your friends to subscribe? |
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