Historical guiding principles: Leopold von Ranke’s advice, chronicle the past “as it really happened,” is faithfully followed in this rare English language historical treatment of the formidable Árpád Line. The author is mindful of Baruch Spinoza’s plea, “ridicule not, bewail not, nor scorn human actions, but understand them.” Rationality pleads for heeding Albert Einstein’s observation: “Morality is of the highest importance… for our very existence depends on it.”The author: From a youthful observer in Hungary, Endre B. Gastony evolved into a student of history at the University of Oregon. As professor at Augustana University, he combined teaching, with research and writing on the topics of nationalism, international events, and Hungarian history. He also conducted college study tours in Europe, until retiring into a life of more research, writing, besides tennis and sailing.