Europe in the twentieth century was a continent of tumult, revolutions, and war. When Israel Is King focuses in on the events that took place in Hungary in the early part of the century, recounting a swirl of underhanded dealings and political murders as the fortunes of different actors and interests rose and fell, and draws particular attention to one pernicious influence and its role in the chaos.
The factions of Count Tisza, the Kaiser, and even the Soviet Union all made Hungary their contesting ground, a convenient proxy for larger struggles. Above all, however, this narrative brings out the pivotal role played by Israel-that is, the Jewish people and their collective interests. These interests are clearly identified in the Hungarian context, and demonstrated in their desire to bring revolutionary change to the country and create a new Jerusalem. The influence of Israel reaches its zenith with the short-lived Hungarian Soviet Republic led by Bela Kun, whose demise would bring an end to Israel's designs, at least for the time being.
Written by French brothers and prolific authors Jerome and Jean Tharaud, this updated 1921 English translation of When Israel Is King is now being made widely available. Antelope Hill Publishing is proud to bring back this foundational work which tells the story of a small but brave land and its struggles, many of which echo ours today.
