Ireland and Hungary [antikvár]

Foreword árpád göncz President of the Hungarian Republic This is a book that will bring two nations, parallel in aspects of history, even closer together in spirit. In the penultimate chapter of Ireland and Hungary, Dr Thomas Kabdebo undertakes to solve the most arduous task: to acquaint Irish readers with the historic moment of 1956 (it was a historic moment lasting a mere two weeks) and make them feel the solemnity of the occasion. Irish readers were not part of the 56, they were friendly onlookers with a special insight. As their country had often felt the élan of freedom fights they had a spiritual connection with a rising that had been suppressed, and its memory mourned. This book reflects the facts and spirit of revolutions the Irish reader will understand and will identify with. While I was saying that writing about the revolution was an arduous task, it was, at the same time, a rewarding one too. Thomas Kabdebo, living in Hungary in 1956, was part of 56, and his recall of the voices of the press gave such authenticity to his record of the events that I had a lump in my throat when I read it. Here at home, in prison or out of it, we have had enough time to contemplate on the aftermath of 56. When, fifteen years after the revolution, I managed to make a visit abroad I could surmise the meaning of 56. After the war, which was known in the west in terms of Hungary being Germany's ally, 1956 redressed the balance, placed Hungary back into European consciousness, and restored our country's honour. The fighters were those teenagers, mostly young workers, who fought against the Soviets, to their last breath, bearing all consequences: execution, or imprisonment, or exile. Abroad they were welcome and were given the chance to take their places in the society of their chosen country. Many have succeeded honourably, and many have been maintaining the spirit of 1956 which they represented. In terms of Ireland we can see the beginning of this process in the Irish welcome and in the practical help provided by the Irish branch of the Red Cross Society. Those who are interested in the reality of 1956 - which spiritually connects with Irish freedom fights - will gain a true record from Thomas Kabdebo's book. I can personally vouch for its total integrity and authenticity. 9