Fraternity-Testvériség, 1958 (36. évfolyam, 1-11. szám)

1958-10-01 / 10. szám

FRATERNITY

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sitting in Debreczen, by calling on its members to pass a Declaration of Independence establishing Hungary as a free and independent nation.

This bold and momentous motion was adopted by acclamation even though Kossuth and the other members of the Diet knew that the Imperial Court in Vienna was at that very time negotiating for military invasion of Hungary by large Russian forces to quell the spirit and forces of independence.

By the end of the summer of 1849, under the overwhelming pressure of both the Austrian and Russian armies, the war for Magyar independence came to an end. Hungary’s brief freedom was once again stifled, and Kossuth and some 5,000 fugitives fled into a lifetime of exile.

From that date until his death in Italy 45 years later, Lajos Kossuth was the untiring voice, the relentless champion, the living symbol of cherished hopes for democratic developments in Hungary and other countries throughout Europe.

In December of 1851, Kossuth arrived in New York City to begin a seven and one-halfs months’ triumphant American tour, including an appearance as the first foreign dignitary invited to address the United States Senate. He was welcomed by large crowds everywhere he went and on every hand received overwhelming proof of this nation’s understanding and sympathy for the cause of freedom for which this brave man gave so much.

Kossuth, in one of his American addresses, emphasized the close bonds between this country and his freedom-loving countrymen when he said:

“The history and institutions of the United States exerted a real influence upon the resolution of my people to resist oppression and not to shrink before the dangers and sacrifices of a terrible contest.”

In the exhibit in the rear of this auditorium are copies of news stories about Kossuth’s American visit, a map showing his itinerary, and other historical data and memorabilia.

The January 15, 1852, issue of the “Illinois State Journal” of Springfield, Illinois, is of particular interest. Reproduced on its front page is a resolution drafted by Abraham Lincoln and other citizens of Springfield inviting Kossuth to honor their city by a visit and expressing the best wishes of its citizens for the cause of Hungarian freedom.