The First Hungarian Republic was established after World War I, following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918. It was officially proclaimed on November 16, 1918, and aimed to create a democratic government. The republic faced numerous challenges, including political instability and economic difficulties, which were exacerbated by the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, leading to significant territorial losses for Hungary. The republic was short-lived, lasting until 1920, when it was replaced by a more authoritarian regime under Miklós Horthy. The political turmoil during this period set the stage for future conflicts and shaped Hungary's national identity in the years to come.