Memorandum, by unidentified writer, on Hungarian situation, Zurich.
Date
1939-02-09
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Arrived in Budapest for negotiation on Mutual Credit and found unrest and excitement over international political situation greater than anywhere else; after annexation of Austria, Germany's close-in on Hungary began, and after German occupation of Sudeten District, limitation of Hungary's freedom increased; Prime Minister [Bela] Imrédy's refusal of Hitler's suggestion that German troops might be marched through Hungary was considered by Hitler as unfriendly and resulted in Germany's making life in Hungary very unpleasant; German pressure forced the resignation of Foreign Minister [Koloman] de Kanya,and Imrédy to make many concessions; Germany offered to purchase Hungarian wheat harvest at high price; price not paid in cash but in high priced goods which Hungary does not need in large quantities; action against Jews in Hungary also a concession to Germany; Hungary has never had an anti-Semitic issue; most Hungarian families have Jews among their members; Regent [Nicolas] Horthy is said to have declared he would not sign law concerning Jews, but Prime Minister [Bela] Imrédy confident measure will go through; Jews thinking only of liquidating property and leaving country; trade and banking becoming disorganized as result; [Joachim von] Ribbentrop has promised there will be no attack on Russia for next four months; perhaps no imminent danger of German military venture toward East, but economic and political pressure on Hungary continues.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.