Hungarian Revolution of 1956 (Paperback)

The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 was a spontaneous nationwide revolt against the Stalinist government of the People's Republic of Hungary and its Soviet-imposed policies, lasting from 23 October until 10 November 1956.The revolt began as a student demonstration which attracted thousands as it marched through central Budapest to the Parliament building. A student delegation entering the radio building in an attempt to broadcast its demands was detained. When the delegation's release was demanded by the demonstrators outside, they were fired upon by the State Security Police (VH) from within the building. The news spread quickly and disorder and violence erupted throughout the capital.The revolt spread quickly across Hungary, and the government fell. Thousands organized into militias, battling the State Security Police (VH) and Soviet troops. Pro-Soviet communists and VH members were often executed or imprisoned, as former prisoners were released and armed. Impromptu councils wrested municipal control from the ruling Hungarian Working People's Party and demanded political changes.