Bethlen Almanac 1999 (Ligonier)
The Hungarian Reformed Federation of America
In 1851, when Kossuth visited the United States, he came with a purpose, namely to seek the assistance of the United States in helping Hungary to regain its independence from the Austrian Empire. As you know, Kossuth was welcomed in this country as the head of the Republic of Hungary and as a champion of liberty. In the 1830s when Kossuth was still a law student, he studied the American Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. He was a very active member of the so-called “Reformers Generation” and also a member of the “Pro-American Group.” Today, during this historical ceremony in Independence, Missouri, Hungary’s new Pro-American Group has been awarded the privilege to sign the NATO alliance on behalf of the new Republic of Hungary of which we, the ethnic Hungarians throughout the United States, are very happy and proud. Finally, after a century and a half, the Republic of Hungary can take its place among the peace loving nations of the world.” Kossuth 's definition of democracy, given in an address to the Ohio legislature in Columbus, February 17, 1852. 5
