Historical Attempts of Hungary to Overtake Romania and Their Failures

The historical relationship between Hungary and Romania has been marked by significant territorial disputes. The question of whether these attempts at overtake were successful remains a matter of perspective, influenced by the historical context and official narratives. This article delves into the major attempts made by Hungary to control Romanian territories during the 20th century, examining the success of these endeavors and the reasons behind their failures.

Historical Context and Background

The modern Romanian state originated in the mid-19th century, with the unification of Moldavia and Walachia in 1859. However, the historical tensions between the two nations have roots that extend much further back, primarily during the medieval and early modern periods.

Historical Attempts and Their Outcomes

1916 - Romania’s War Against Hungary

The first major attempt by Hungary to overtake Romania occurred during World War I. In 1916, Romania, having declared war against Austria-Hungary, sought to reclaim territories that were part of the medieval lands of Transylvania, Banat, and Moldavia. The Romanian Kingdom invaded Hungary, pushing the Austro-Hungarian forces back to defenses in present-day Serbia and Hungary.

However, the outcome was not in favor of the Romanians. In December of the same year, a Russian cavalry unit entered Bucharest. The significant strategic defeat of the Central Powers, of which Hungary was a part, allowed Romania to seize territory from the retreating forces. Romania’s victory in this conflict marked a turning point in the war, and it ultimately secured its borders with Hungary.

1919 - The Failed Effort Post-World War I

Following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1919, a brief period of conflict arose with the communist regime in Hungary attempting to reclaim Transylvanian territories. However, this effort was a failure. The newly formed Royal Romanian Army succeeded in defending the region, preventing any significant Hungarian advance.

This conflict can be seen from a Romanian perspective as a successful defense against the reclamation of ancient lands, representing a powerful defense against Hungarian aggressions.

1940 - The Annexation of Northern Transylvania

During World War II, in September 1940, Hungary, under the direction of Adolf Hitler, re-annexed approximately 43,000 square kilometers of territory in Northern Transylvania. This move was seen by the Hungarians as correcting what they perceived as an unjust post-World War I treaty, the Treaty of Trianon, which had significantly reduced Hungary’s territory.

From the Romanian perspective, this move was heavily associated with Nazi Germany and was viewed as an act of aggression against Romanian lands, criminal and in collusion with the Axis powers. Romania, having entered into an alliance with the Soviet Union, was able to secure its hold over these territories. The Soviet Red Army played a crucial role in repelling the Hungarian invasion.

Conclusion and Reflections

The historical attempts by Hungary to overtake Romanian territories have primarily been associated with moments of conflict and war. From the Romanian perspective, these attempts were mostly unsuccessful and ended in favor of Romania. These conflicts were often marred by international tensions and the influence of broader geopolitical forces, such as alliances with Soviet Russia and Germany.

While these historical attempts are often framed through specific military engagements, it is important to recognize the complex political and social contexts that have shaped the relationships between the two nations over the centuries. The persistence of these tensions in the modern era, even if not involving overt military actions, reflects the enduring historical and cultural legacies that continue to influence the region.