The origin of the Székely people is an interesting debate. Many scholars believe in a two-fold Hungarian migration, one prior to the main Magyar occupation of the Carpathian Basin in 896 A.D. According to this theory, the Székelys or Szeklers are a Hungarian group that settled in Transylvania during this first migration. There is also evidence that the Székelys are related to the Scythians or Sumerians who may have joined the Magyars on their trek westward. Sculptures have been found depicting Scythian scenes in Transylvania (Go to Hungarian Images on HipCat's main page). In addition, Székelys still use a form of Scythian writing known as cunei.

Whatev er the theory, it is undispu ted that the Székely s have inhabited Transylvania for over a thousand years. Unfortunately the aftermath of WWI saw hundreds of thousands of HuThe orngarians - many Székely - forced out of Transylvania. This exodus still continues as harsh conditions and oppression has only worsened under a new "free" Romania where Hungarian language schools and centuries old universities are closing, churches are burned, and Hungarians are beaten for demonstrating for democracy and basic human rights (See Helsinki Watch Report "Destroying Ethnic Identity, the Hungarians of Romania," for more information.)

English translation follows.

Last Updated: Friday, June 19, 1998