Pathetic Facts

Hungarian music stars died at age 72

Here are 19 famous musicians from Hungary died at 72:

Roland Wank

Roland Wank (April 5, 1898-April 5, 1970) was a Hungarian architect.

He is best known for his eclectic style that combined traditional Hungarian folk designs with functionality and modernism. Wank was born in Budapest and studied architecture at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. In the 1920s, he worked for the prominent Hungarian architect Ödön Lechner, who is considered the father of Hungarian Art Nouveau.

Wank's architectural style was heavily influenced by Lechner's work, as well as by the traditional Hungarian motifs and peasant crafts. He believed that architecture should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional and serve the needs of its inhabitants. Wank's designs included private homes, apartment buildings, schools, and public buildings.

In the 1930s, he became the chief architect of the Hungarian Ministry of Education and Culture, where he designed several schools and cultural centers. During World War II, Wank worked on the reconstruction of Budapest, which was heavily damaged by the bombings. After the war, he continued to work on various architectural projects and played an important role in the post-war reconstruction of Hungary.

Wank was also a professor of architecture at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics and wrote several books on Hungarian architecture and design. His most famous work, the Budapest Bauhaus, is still considered a masterpiece of Hungarian modernist architecture. Wank died on his 72nd birthday in Budapest, leaving behind an impressive legacy and influencing generations of Hungarian architects.

In addition to his architectural works, Roland Wank was also a talented painter and graphic designer. He often incorporated his own artwork into his architectural designs, creating a cohesive and artistic space. Wank was also an active member of the Hungarian National Association of Applied Arts and taught courses on art and design.

Despite his success and influence in Hungarian architecture, Wank's work fell out of favor during the Soviet era, as the government preferred a more utilitarian and Communist style of architecture. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Wank's work and his designs have been celebrated for their innovative and artistic approach. Today, several of Wank's buildings have been preserved as historic landmarks and are cherished for their unique blend of traditional Hungarian motifs and modernist style.

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Sándor Rónai

Sándor Rónai (October 6, 1892 Miskolc-September 28, 1965 Budapest) otherwise known as Sandor Ronai was a Hungarian politician.

He was a member of the Hungarian parliament and the minister of education during the brief Hungarian Soviet Republic in 1919. After the fall of the Soviet Republic, Rónai fled Hungary and lived in exile in Austria, Czechoslovakia, and France until World War II. During his time in Paris, he worked as a journalist, writing articles for various Hungarian newspapers.

After the war, Rónai returned to Hungary and became a member of the Communist Party. He was elected to parliament again and served as the minister of culture and education from 1948 to 1951. However, in 1952, he was accused of "nationalist deviation" and expelled from the party. He was arrested in 1953 and sentenced to 12 years in prison, but his sentence was reduced to four years in 1955.

After his release, Rónai worked as a freelance writer and translator until his death in 1965. He left behind a significant body of work, including translations of French literature into Hungarian, as well as his own poems, plays, and essays. Despite his political ups and downs, Rónai remains an important figure in Hungarian literature and culture.

Rónai was born into a Jewish family in the city of Miskolc, Hungary. He showed an early aptitude for languages, speaking several of them fluently by the time he was a teenager. He studied law and philosophy at the University of Budapest, but soon became involved in left-wing political circles. During the chaos and political upheaval that followed World War I, Rónai was one of the leading figures in the Hungarian Soviet Republic, a short-lived socialist state that was established in 1919. After its collapse, he went into exile, spending several years in various European cities before settling in Paris, where he became part of an influential community of Hungarian writers and artists.

In addition to his political and literary activities, Rónai was also an accomplished linguist and translator. He translated works by authors such as Gustave Flaubert, Albert Camus, and Victor Hugo into Hungarian, and also wrote extensively on topics such as language learning and language pedagogy.

Despite his political allegiances and his involvement in controversial events such as the Hungarian Soviet Republic, Rónai was widely respected for his intellectual abilities and his contributions to Hungarian culture. His writings on literature and language continue to be read and studied to this day, and he is remembered as a significant figure in the history of Hungarian intellectual life.

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Georges Cziffra

Georges Cziffra (November 5, 1921 Budapest-January 15, 1994 Senlis) otherwise known as Cziffra, Georges was a Hungarian pianist.

His discography includes: , , Rhapsodies Hongroises, Piano Concertos / Totentanz / Hungarian Fantasy, Piano Concerto no. 1 / Violin Concerto, , Works for Piano, 10 Hungarian Rhapsodies, Transcendental Studies / Mephisto Waltz No. 1 and Concertos pour piano no 1 & 2. Genres he performed include Classical music.

He died in lung cancer.

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Kálmán Széll

Kálmán Széll (June 8, 1843 Gasztony-August 16, 1915 Rátót) also known as Kalman Szell was a Hungarian personality.

He served as the Prime Minister of Hungary from 1899 to 1903 and is known for his significant contributions to the modernization of the country. Széll was a strong advocate for financial and economic reforms, which helped transform Hungary into a more prosperous country during his time in office. He also played a key role in promoting education and started several initiatives that helped improve the country's infrastructure, such as the construction of railroads and highways. Despite facing opposition from some conservative factions within Hungarian politics, Széll's forward-thinking policies and accomplishments helped establish him as one of the most influential figures in Hungarian history. Today, he is remembered as a prominent politician and a prominent advocate for progress and modernization in Hungary.

Széll was born in Gasztony (today Gastău in Romania) in the Kingdom of Hungary. He studied law at the University of Pest and began his career as a lawyer. In addition to being a successful lawyer, Széll was also an accomplished journalist and editor. He wrote for several newspapers and magazines, including the influential Pesti Hirlap, which he also edited.

In 1884, Széll was elected to the Hungarian parliament as a member of the Liberal Party. He quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the party's top leaders. In 1899, he was appointed Prime Minister of Hungary by Emperor Franz Joseph I.

As Prime Minister, Széll implemented a number of important reforms. He reorganized the country's tax system, which helped increase revenue for the government. He also encouraged foreign investment and modernized Hungary's industrial base. Under Széll's leadership, Hungary experienced significant economic growth and became one of the fastest-developing countries in Europe.

Széll's tenure as Prime Minister was not without controversy. Some conservative factions within Hungarian politics opposed his reforms, and there were several attempts to remove him from office. Despite these challenges, Széll remained committed to his vision of a modern, prosperous Hungary.

After leaving office in 1903, Széll continued to be active in Hungarian politics. He served as Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament from 1905 to 1910 and was also a prominent member of the National Liberal Party. He died in Rátót in 1915 at the age of 72.

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Gyula Szapáry

Gyula Szapáry (November 1, 1832 Pest, Hungary-January 20, 1905 Opatija) also known as Gyula Szapary was a Hungarian personality.

He served as a diplomat and statesman, having been the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador to Germany and the Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister. During his tenure, he played a significant role in the negotiations leading to the Dual Monarchy of Austria-Hungary. Szapary was also a philanthropist, known for his support for the arts and education. He founded the Szapary Foundation, which provides scholarships for young Hungarian scholars. In addition, he was an avid art collector and had an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. The Szapary Palace, situated in Vienna, is still home to some of his collections.

Szapáry was born into an aristocratic family and was educated in Vienna and Paris. He began his career in the civil service of the Austrian Empire before becoming a diplomat. He held several diplomatic positions before being appointed as the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador to Germany in 1882. During his time in Germany, he played an important role in the negotiations leading to the Dual Alliance between Austria-Hungary and Germany in 1879.

As Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister from 1895 to 1903, Szapáry continued to play an important role in foreign affairs. He was involved in negotiations with Russia over their respective spheres of influence in the Balkans and helped to develop closer ties with Italy. His tenure also saw the signing of a treaty with Romania, which helped to strengthen Austro-Hungarian influence in the region.

Szapáry was widely respected for his intelligence, diplomacy, and dedication to public service. He was a staunch believer in the importance of education and the arts and was known for his support of cultural institutions throughout Hungary and Austria. His legacy continues to be celebrated today through the activities of the Szapary Foundation and the preservation of the Szapary Palace and its collections.

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Johann Andreas Segner

Johann Andreas Segner (October 9, 1704 Bratislava-October 5, 1777 Halle) a.k.a. Jan Andrej Segner was a Hungarian scientist and mathematician.

Segner is best known for his work in fluid dynamics, particularly his study of turbulence and the behavior of fluids in motion. He made significant contributions to the study of hydraulics and hydrodynamics, developing several mathematical models to predict the behavior of fluids in various situations.

In addition to his work in fluid mechanics, Segner was also a professor of mathematics and physics, teaching at a number of prestigious universities throughout Europe. He wrote several influential books on mathematics and the natural sciences, including "Theoretical and Practical Arithmetic" and "Elements of Physics."

Segner was also an accomplished inventor, developing a number of machines and devices to accomplish various tasks. He is credited with inventing the first water turbine, which was an important development in the field of hydropower.

Throughout his career, Segner was recognized for his contributions to science and mathematics, receiving numerous honors and awards from scientific societies in Europe. His legacy continues to be felt today, particularly in the field of fluid dynamics, where his work laid the foundation for future research and development.

Segner was born in Bratislava (then known as Pozsony) in the Kingdom of Hungary, which is now Slovakia. He graduated from the Jesuit school in Bratislava, and later attended the University of Vienna, where he studied mathematics, physics, and theology. After completing his studies, Segner became a professor of mathematics and physics, teaching at several universities throughout Europe, including the University of Jena, the University of Halle, and the University of Göttingen.

In addition to his work in fluid mechanics and his academic career, Segner was also a prolific writer and inventor. He wrote extensively on a wide variety of topics, including mathematics, physics, astronomy, and engineering. His inventions included a fluid-dynamic lamp, a water-powered alarm clock, and a machine for creating fire by friction.

Segner's contributions to science and mathematics were widely recognized during his lifetime. He was a member of the Royal Society of London and the Royal Prussian Academy of Sciences, among other scientific societies. He also received numerous honorary degrees and awards from universities and scientific organizations throughout Europe.

Today, Segner is remembered as one of the leading scientists and mathematicians of his time, and his work continues to influence research in fluid dynamics and other fields.

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József Szabó de Szentmiklós

József Szabó de Szentmiklós (March 14, 1822-April 12, 1894 Budapest) also known as Jozsef Szabo von Szentmiklos or József Szabó von Szentmiklós was a Hungarian scientist and geologist.

He was the founder and first director of the Hungarian Geological Institute and played a key role in the development of modern geological mapping in Hungary. Szabó was also a professor of geology at the University of Budapest and authored numerous scientific publications. In addition to his scientific pursuits, he was also involved in politics and served in the Hungarian Parliament from 1861 to 1865. Szabó's significant contributions to the field of geology earned him several honors and awards, including membership in the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Geological Society of London.

Szabó was born in Pest, Hungary, and showed an early interest in geology and mineralogy. He studied at the University of Vienna and later completed his doctoral degree in mineralogy at the University of Pest. After graduation, Szabó traveled extensively throughout Europe, visiting geological sites and studying rocks and minerals. Upon his return to Hungary, he began working as a professor of mineralogy at the University of Pest and later became the first professor of geology at the University of Budapest.

Szabó's pioneering work in geological mapping and research significantly advanced the understanding of the geology of Hungary. He organized and led numerous geological expeditions, collecting important data and samples that were used to produce detailed geological maps of the country. His research also contributed to the discovery of important mineral deposits, including petroleum and coal. Szabó's publications on the geology of Hungary were widely read and respected within the scientific community.

In addition to his work in geology, Szabó was also an active politician and played a role in the development of Hungarian society. He served as a member of the Hungarian Parliament from 1861 to 1865, where he advocated for the importance of science and education in the country. Szabó's contributions to science and society were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Gold Medal of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Order of Franz Joseph I.

Szabó's legacy continues to influence the study of geology in Hungary and beyond. The Hungarian Geological Institute, which he founded, remains one of the leading institutions for geological research and education in Central Europe.

Sándor Kisfaludy

Sándor Kisfaludy (September 27, 1772 Sümeg-October 28, 1844) otherwise known as Sandor Kisfaludy was a Hungarian personality.

He was a poet, dramatist, and a member of the Kisfaludy Society, a cultural association in Hungary. Kisfaludy was one of the most important literary figures of his time and is considered a key figure in the development of modern Hungarian literature. He wrote plays, poems, and novels that dealt with topics such as historical events, national mythology, and the struggles of everyday life. Some of his most famous works include the play "Hunyadi László" and the epic poem "Ahriman Visszatér." In addition to his literary achievements, Kisfaludy was also known for his role in the development of Hungarian theater, having founded the first permanent Hungarian theater company in Pest in 1807. He was a respected figure in Hungarian intellectual circles and his legacy continues to influence Hungarian culture to this day.

Kisfaludy came from a family of the Hungarian nobility and initially pursued a career in law. However, his passion for literature led him to give up his legal practice to focus on writing. Along with his brother Karoly, he founded the Kisfaludy Society which aimed to promote Hungarian literature and culture. The society, which still exists today, has played an important role in the preservation and development of Hungarian language and literature.

Kisfaludy was also involved in Hungarian politics and was a vocal advocate for national independence and cultural autonomy for Hungary. He was a supporter of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and served briefly as a member of the revolutionary government. After the revolution was crushed by Austrian forces, Kisfaludy went into exile and spent the rest of his life in Italy.

Despite his contributions to Hungarian literature and culture, Kisfaludy died in relative obscurity. It was only later in the 19th century that his work began to be fully appreciated for its significance in the development of modern Hungarian literature. Today he is remembered as one of Hungary's great literary figures and his work continues to inspire and influence Hungarian writers and artists.

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S. Z. Sakall

S. Z. Sakall (February 2, 1883 Budapest-February 12, 1955 Los Angeles) also known as S.Z. "Cuddles" Sakall, S. Z. "Cuddles" Sakall, Szöke Szakall, Szöke Sakall, Szöke Szakáll, Szoke Szakall, Cuddles Sakall, S. K. Sakall, S.K. Sakall, Szõke Szakáll, S.Z. 'Cuddles' Sakall, Szöke Szakàll, Cuddles, Jacob Gero or Gerő Jenő was a Hungarian actor and screenwriter.

S. Z. Sakall began his acting career in his native Hungary, appearing in numerous films from 1913 to 1933. In 1939, he immigrated to the United States and quickly found success as a character actor, known for his distinctively thick accent and jolly demeanor. Over the course of his career, he appeared in over 100 films, often playing comedic sidekicks or paternal figures. Some of his most notable roles include Carl the head waiter in the film "Casablanca" and Professor Spotswood in "Yankee Doodle Dandy". He also worked as a screenwriter on several films. Off-screen, he was known for his warm personality and generosity towards his fellow actors.

S.Z. Sakall was born into a Jewish family and grew up in a middle-class household. He initially pursued a career in banking, but his love for the arts led him to become a stage actor in Budapest. He eventually transitioned to film acting and became a popular star in Hungary. In the early 1930s, as political tensions rose in Europe, Sakall began to feel the effects of anti-Semitism and decided to leave Hungary.

Upon arriving in the United States, Sakall had some difficulty finding work due to his limited English skills. However, he soon found success in Hollywood and became a beloved character actor. He was known for his ability to add humor and heart to his roles, even in the smallest of parts. Sakall's warm personality and jovial laugh made him a favorite among his fellow actors and crew members.

Despite his success, Sakall experienced personal tragedies throughout his life. He lost his wife and daughter in a concentration camp during World War II and later battled health issues, including heart problems. Despite these challenges, he continued to work in Hollywood until his death in 1955.

Sakall's legacy lives on in his memorable film roles and his reputation as a kind and generous person. He is also remembered for successfully transitioning from a successful career in Hungary to an equally successful career in the United States.

He died in myocardial infarction.

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Béla Gerster

Béla Gerster (October 20, 1850 Košice-August 3, 1923) a.k.a. Bela Gerster was a Hungarian engineer and architect.

He is known for designing the Gellért Baths in Budapest, Hungary, which opened in 1918. Gerster studied engineering in Budapest and then architecture in Munich, Germany. He later worked as a professor of architecture at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. In addition to the Gellért Baths, Gerster also designed several other notable buildings in Budapest, including the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Pesti Vigadó concert hall. Later in his career, he focused on restoration and conservation work, contributing to the preservation of many historic buildings in Hungary. Gerster's legacy in Hungarian architecture earned him the recognition of being one of the most important architects of the turn of the 20th century.

Gerster's design of the Gellért Baths was particularly innovative, incorporating a blend of Art Nouveau and Neo-Baroque elements. The baths were considered a masterpiece of his career and quickly became a popular attraction in Budapest. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, which Gerster designed in collaboration with architect Győző Czigler, is also an iconic Budapest landmark. The bath was the first thermal bath on the Pest side of the city, and has since become one of the largest spa complexes in Europe.

In addition to his architectural work, Gerster was also an accomplished photographer. He was particularly interested in capturing images of historic buildings and structures throughout Hungary, and many of his photographs are now held in the Hungarian National Museum. Gerster was recognized for his contributions to Hungarian culture and history, and was awarded the Order of Merit of the Hungarian Republic posthumously.

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István Avar

István Avar (May 28, 1905 Arad-October 15, 1977 Kaposvár) otherwise known as Istvan Avar was a Hungarian personality.

He was a renowned writer, journalist, and editor, who made significant contributions to Hungarian literature and culture. He was interested in politics from a young age and translated various political works. Avar started working as a journalist in the 1930s and was eventually appointed the editor of multiple newspapers and magazines.

Avar's literary career began in the 1930s, and he published numerous novels, plays, and essays on a range of topics that explored the cultural and political climate of Hungary. His work was noted for its sharp wit, and he was considered one of the most humorous writers of his time.

He was also actively involved in Hungary's political scene, and his journalism often addressed social and political issues.

In addition to his literary and journalistic work, Avar was also a prolific translator, translating works from English, German, and French. Even after his death, Avar's contributions to Hungarian literature and culture continue to be recognized and appreciated.

Avar was born to a Jewish family and grew up in a multi-ethnic community in Arad, Transylvania. He studied law at the University of Budapest but did not pursue a career in the field. Instead, he became increasingly involved in literary and political circles in Budapest. Avar became a member of the Hungarian Writers' Association and the Hungarian Communist Party in the 1930s, and his writing often reflected his political views. He was known for his satirical and critical tone, which often landed him in trouble with the authorities.

During World War II, Avar was arrested by the Gestapo and spent time in several concentration camps. After the war, he returned to Hungary and continued his literary and journalistic work. He joined the editorial board of the literary journal Nyugat and became the editor-in-chief of the newspaper Társadalmi Szemle. In 1949, following the establishment of the communist regime in Hungary, Avar became the editor-in-chief of Szabad Nép, a communist newspaper.

Avar's work continued to be marked by his sharp wit and satirical tone, even under the communist regime. He often used humor to criticize the government and make social commentary. However, his work became increasingly censored and controlled by the regime, and he eventually fell out of favor with the authorities. In the 1960s, Avar was forced into retirement and lived the rest of his life in relative obscurity. However, his literary legacy continued to be celebrated in Hungary and he is considered a key figure in Hungarian literature and culture.

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Sigismund Bachrich

Sigismund Bachrich (January 23, 1841-July 16, 1913) was a Hungarian personality.

He was a notable physician, philanthropist, and social reformer in Hungary during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bachrich was born into a Jewish family, and after completing his medical studies, he became a pioneer in the treatment of tuberculosis, then a widespread and deadly disease. He opened a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients in Budapest and pioneered new treatments that saved countless lives.

In addition to his medical work, Bachrich was known for his philanthropic activities. He devoted himself to improving the lives of Hungary's poor and marginalized communities, and he established numerous charities and organizations dedicated to this cause. His tireless efforts to promote social justice and equality earned him widespread respect in Hungary and beyond, and he was honored with numerous awards and accolades during his lifetime.

Bachrich's legacy lives on today through the numerous institutions he founded or helped to establish, including the Hungarian Society for the Prevention of Tuberculosis, which remains a leading organization in the fight against this deadly disease.

Bachrich's activism and advocacy for the poor and marginalized also extended beyond the realm of medicine. He was a vocal supporter of women's rights and education, and he played an important role in the establishment of the Women's Medical Association of Hungary, which provided medical training and support for women. He was also an active member of the Jewish community and worked tirelessly to combat anti-Semitism and support Jewish causes. In recognition of his work, Bachrich was awarded numerous honors and titles, including the Order of Franz Joseph and the prestigious Goethe Medal. Despite his achievements and accolades, Bachrich remained humble and dedicated to his work until his death in 1913. Today, he is remembered as a pioneer in the field of medicine and a champion for social justice and equality.

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Jenő Fuchs

Jenő Fuchs (October 29, 1882 Budapest-March 14, 1955 Budapest) was a Hungarian personality.

He had a diverse range of interests and accomplishments throughout his life. Fuchs was a prominent fencer and won a silver medal at the 1912 Olympics. He also served as the President of the Hungarian Fencing Federation from 1911 to 1945.

In addition to his sporting achievements, Fuchs was a respected lawyer and politician. He was elected to the Hungarian Parliament in 1910 and served multiple terms throughout his career. Fuchs also held various positions within the Hungarian government, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Education.

Fuchs was an outspoken opponent of the rise of fascism in Hungary during the 1930s and 1940s. However, he was eventually forced into hiding during World War II and was arrested by the Nazis in 1944. Fuchs survived the war and continued to advocate for democracy and human rights in Hungary until his death in 1955.

After World War II, Jenő Fuchs became involved in politics once again and was appointed as Hungary's Minister of Education in 1949. However, he soon became disillusioned with the Communist government and was removed from his position. Fuchs remained critical of the government and was eventually arrested in 1950 on charges of conspiracy against the state. He was tried and sentenced to life in prison. Fuchs was released in 1953 due to his failing health and spent his remaining years under house arrest. Despite the difficult circumstances, he continued to write and speak out for democracy and human rights. Fuchs' legacy as a champion of justice and freedom remains an inspiration to many in Hungary today.

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Sándor Gombos

Sándor Gombos (December 4, 1895 Austria-Hungary-January 27, 1968) was a Hungarian personality.

He began his career as an actor in the silent film era, appearing in more than 50 films throughout his career. Gombos is best known for his roles in "Hyppolit, the Butler" (1931) and "The Boys of Paul Street" (1934). He also worked as a film director, screenwriter, and producer. In addition to his contributions to Hungarian cinema, Gombos was also a well-known athlete, having won several national championships in sprinting and hurdling. However, his career was cut short by World War II, during which he served in the Hungarian Army. After the war, Gombos was briefly imprisoned for his ties to the former regime before returning to the film industry.

During his later years, Sándor Gombos collaborated with the celebrated filmmaker, Zoltán Fábri, and acted in several of his films, including "Two Half-Times in Hell" (1961) and "The Fifth Seal" (1976). He also served as a mentor to young actors and filmmakers, including the renowned Hungarian director, István Szabó. Gombos was renowned for his talent and dedication to the arts, and his contributions to film and athletics have left a lasting impact on Hungarian culture. Despite facing several obstacles in his career, Gombos remained committed to his craft and continued to inspire future generations of performers and artists.

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László Szollás

László Szollás (November 13, 1907 Budapest-October 4, 1980 Budapest) was a Hungarian personality.

He trained as an electrical engineer and worked as a technical journalist before pursuing a career in politics. Szollás was a member of the Hungarian Communist Party and he served as a Member of Parliament from 1945 to 1947. He was imprisoned for his political beliefs during the Stalinist era from 1951 to 1955.

After his release, Szollás continued to write and publish articles on politics and technology. He also worked as an engineer in the Hungarian film industry. Szollás was honored with several awards for his contributions to the field of electrical engineering, including the Kossuth Prize in 1952 and the Order of Labor in 1967.

In addition to his political and engineering work, Szollás was also known for his literary output. He wrote poetry and short stories, and his satirical works earned him a reputation as one of Hungary's most important humorists.

In the years following the 1956 Hungarian Uprising, Szollás became critical of the Soviet-controlled political situation in Hungary. He was expelled from the Communist Party in 1957 and arrested again in 1958. After his release, Szollás worked with other dissident intellectuals to form a new opposition movement in Hungary. In 1970, he participated in the formation of the Hungarian Democratic Forum, a political organization that sought to promote democratic reform in Hungary. Despite his advancing age, Szollás remained politically active until his death in 1980. He is remembered as a prominent figure in the intellectual and political life of Hungary during the mid-twentieth century.

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József Bittenbinder

József Bittenbinder (December 31, 1890 Pančevo-January 25, 1963 Budapest) was a Hungarian personality.

He was a writer, journalist, and cultural organizer, known for his contributions to Hungarian literature and his efforts in promoting Hungarian culture internationally. Bittenbinder began his career as a journalist, working for various Hungarian newspapers throughout his life. He was a prolific writer, publishing several books on Hungarian literature and culture, including anthologies of Hungarian poetry and short stories.

Bittenbinder was also a passionate advocate for Hungarian culture and served as the director of the Hungarian Cultural Institute in Berlin from 1928 to 1933. He played a crucial role in organizing exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout Germany and Europe to showcase Hungarian art, music, and literature.

During World War II, Bittenbinder remained in Budapest and continued to promote Hungarian culture despite the occupation of Hungary by Nazi Germany. After the war, he continued to work as a journalist and cultural organizer, focusing on expanding the reach of Hungarian culture to the wider world.

Bittenbinder's contributions to Hungarian culture and literature were widely recognized during his lifetime, and he remains an important figure in Hungarian cultural history to this day.

Bittenbinder was born to a Hungarian father and Serbian mother in the city of Pančevo, then part of the Kingdom of Hungary (now in Serbia). He studied philosophy and literature at the University of Budapest and published his first literary works while still a student. Bittenbinder was always interested in Hungarian folk culture and collected numerous traditional folk songs and stories throughout his career. He also wrote several plays and stage adaptations of Hungarian folk tales.

In addition to his cultural work, Bittenbinder was an active participant in Hungarian politics. He was a member of parliament from 1945 to 1947 and later served as an advisor to the government. He also wrote extensively on political topics, advocating for democracy and national unity in the post-war period.

Bittenbinder's legacy has continued to inspire Hungarian writers and cultural organizers in the decades since his death. His writing and advocacy have helped to keep Hungarian folk culture alive and to promote the country's literary and artistic heritage to audiences around the world.

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Endre Győrfi

Endre Győrfi (March 20, 1920-May 25, 1992) was a Hungarian personality.

He was born in Szombathely, Hungary and studied architecture at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. During World War II, Győrfi was imprisoned in concentration camps for his involvement in the anti-fascist resistance movement. After the war, he became a journalist and worked for several newspapers and magazines. He was also a writer, and published several books on Hungarian history and politics. Győrfi was a well-known figure in Hungarian cultural and political circles, and was actively involved in anti-communist movements in the country. He was a member of the Hungarian Democratic Forum, and was a founding member of the Alliance of Free Democrats. Győrfi died in Budapest in 1992.

In addition to his journalism and political involvement, Endre Győrfi was also a respected architect. He worked as the chief architect of Hungary's largest bank, the Hungarian National Bank, and designed several buildings in Budapest, including residential complexes and the headquarters of the Hungarian Design Council. Győrfi was also active in cultural and artistic circles, and was a member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts. He was awarded numerous honors for his work in architecture and journalism, including the Kossuth Prize, one of Hungary's most prestigious awards.

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Ferenc Cziráki

Ferenc Cziráki (November 19, 1913 Budapest-August 5, 1986 Budapest) was a Hungarian personality.

Ferenc Cziráki was a renowned Hungarian journalist, writer, and politician. He started his career as a journalist, working for several newspapers and magazines, including the famous Pesti Napló. He gained popularity for his writings that often criticized the government and called for democratic reforms.

In the 1940s, Cziráki became involved in politics and joined the Independent Smallholder Party. He was elected to the National Assembly in 1947 but was later arrested by the communist regime and sentenced to life imprisonment. He spent several years in prison before being released in 1956 during the Hungarian Revolution.

After the revolution was crushed, Cziráki fled to Austria and later emigrated to Germany and then to the United States. During his time in the US, he continued to write and give lectures on Hungarian politics and history. He returned to Hungary in 1989, just before the fall of communism.

Cziráki was highly respected for his political activism, journalism, and literary works, making him one of the most influential figures in Hungarian history.

Throughout his career, Ferenc Cziráki held various leadership positions in the Independent Smallholder Party, serving as the party's press chief for some time. He also served as editor-in-chief of several major newspapers in Hungary, including Új Magyarország and Magyar Nemzet. In addition to his political and journalistic pursuits, Cziráki was also a prolific author, publishing over 40 books on a range of topics such as Hungarian literature, politics, and history.

Cziráki's writings and speeches often reflected his strong commitment to democracy and his belief in the importance of preserving Hungary's cultural heritage. He was a fervent advocate for the country's independence and sovereignty, and played an active role in the fight against foreign occupation and oppression.

Despite his many achievements, Cziráki's political career was not without controversy. He was accused by some of being too radical in his views and was often at odds with other politicians within his own party. Nevertheless, his unwavering commitment to his principles and his dedication to the cause of democracy have earned him a lasting place in the annals of Hungarian history.

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Blaško Rajić

Blaško Rajić (January 7, 1878-January 3, 1951) was a Hungarian writer and politician.

He was born in the town of Petrovaradin, which was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the time. Rajić was of Serbian descent and grew up in a bilingual household, speaking both Hungarian and Serbian. After completing his education, he worked as a journalist and became involved in politics, joining the Social Democratic Party in 1905.

Rajić was known for his satirical writing and was a prolific author, writing novels, plays, and essays. He also translated works by other authors into Hungarian. Rajić's works often dealt with social and political issues, and he was an advocate for workers' rights and democracy.

During World War II, Rajić was arrested by the Gestapo and spent time in a concentration camp. After the war, he returned to Hungary and continued his writing career.

Today, Blaško Rajić is remembered as an important figure in Hungarian literature and politics. Several of his works have been translated into other languages, including English, and are still read and studied today.

In addition to his writing and political career, Blaško Rajić was also a polyglot who spoke multiple languages, including German, French, and Croatian. He often used his language skills to communicate with and understand different cultures and perspectives throughout his travels.

Rajić was a member of the Hungarian parliament from 1926 to 1939, where he advocated for social justice and the rights of ethnic minorities. However, he remained critical of the government's policies and was often persecuted for his beliefs. In 1944, he was imprisoned for his opposition to the pro-Nazi government in Hungary.

Despite facing numerous obstacles throughout his life, Rajić continued to write and publish his works, including a memoir of his time in the concentration camp during World War II. He received several literary awards for his contributions to Hungarian literature, including the Baumgarten Prize in 1943 and the Hungarian State Prize in 1949.

Today, Rajić's legacy is celebrated in Hungary, with a street and a library named after him in his hometown of Petrovaradin. His writings continue to inspire and resonate with readers, reminding us of the importance of fighting for social justice and democratic values.

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