Arrow Cross- an apprentice who eclipsed the master.

The Arrow Cross were Hungary's fascist political group. They only rose in prominence after Germany's full occupation of the country in October, 1944. Until then they were, basically, an annoyance.

It's impossible to summarise the ingredients which lead to this loathsome period in history. Likewise, the circumstances which lead to the military occupation (invasion) by Nazi Germany of a nation which was, ostensibly, an ally, are complex. It's also controversial and divisive, to this day, and understandably so.

But the evidence suggests one thing: Despite the existence of the Arrow Cross, and the antisemitism of some of Hungary's leaders during the war years, Hungary may well have been the last, safest place for Jews throughout the war...until the war's final few months.

Hungary's regent, Admiral Horthy (despite a degree of intolerance of his own), considered Jews to be Hungarian, valuable, and, therefore, those it was his duty to protect. It was his resistance to mass deportations and segregation which, ultimately, lead to Hitler losing his patience with Hungary and ordering an invasion.

Operation Panzerfaust took place in October 1944, and, again, the details would make a fascinating book in itself. In order to confuse Hungarian military and ensure no resistance, Regent Horthy's son was kidnapped and held as collateral. No orders were given. The Germans waltzed right in.

Following this full invasion, a puppet government were subsequently put in place. After that, Adolf Eichmann and the Arrow Cross had free reign. The explosion of deportations and executions saw almost 600,000 Jews murdered in the final four months of the war.

The Arrow Cross' actions towards Jewish Hungarians were depraved enough that even German personnel questioned them.

Stay tuned for the release date of a novel, set upon the backdrop of this period, based upon real lives and true stories.