This volume provides an up-to-date and comprehensive survey of Hungarian history, from the pre-historic age to 2002. Laszlo Kontler steers the reader through ancient times, the great migration of peoples, and the creation and troubles of a Christian monarchy that arose in the region wedged between the Germanic and Russian lands. The factors involved in the centuries long process which has put Hungary at a disadvantage in coping with the challenges of modernity are also explored including the country's economic backwardness, the social structure, revolutions, wars of independence, and territorial losses. For the first time, there is a detailed discussion of the "socialist" period, while a brief epilogue looks at Hungary's present process of transition to democracy.