Steps to Set up a Hungarian Emigré Government in the West, at the Beginning of the Second World War
Lajos Olasz

Abstract
At the end of the 1930-ies, Germany’s expansion towards the East, the invasion of Austria, Czechoslovakia then Poland also represented imminence for the Hungarian government. In spring 1940, Regent Horthy and Prime Minister Teleki took the fact into account that Hungary could be Hitler’s next victim, therefore in secret they took steps to set up a Hungarian emigré government in the West. However, Horthy wanted to leave the country no way. He trusted in the option of negotiating with Berlin. After Germany’s attack against France, the plan of emigré representation was given up. The Hungarian leaders did not want to provoke German invasion by any chance with this step. In spring 1941, when Hitler turned again towards the East, the regent started to consider the establishment of an emigré government afresh. The Western powers, especially the British politics, received the Hungarian intent very reservedly. They did not give any sign of appreciating the Hungarian endeavours. However, Germany required closer cooperation. Finally, the Hungarian government gave up the plan of the emigré government and gave in to the German pressure.

Full Text: PDF