The Early Árpáds (895–1095): Consolidation, Christianization, Monarchy

Abstract

The nomadic Hungarians arrived in the Carpathian Basin at the end of the ninth century. In the following century, significant changes occurred that led to their survival as a distinct political entity. These changes involved the adoption of western modes of power, including centralization under a single monarch, consolidation of political power, and Christianization in part as a means of ideological legitimacy. These changes are generally attributed to the first king, Stephen, though his father Géza set important precedents. A period of political chaos followed Stephen's death, but Ladislas I followed the example of Stephen in reestablishing order.