The Hungarian nobility refers to the social class of landowners and aristocrats in Hungary, which played a significant role in the country's history. This class emerged during the Middle Ages and was characterized by its privileges, including land ownership, tax exemptions, and political influence. Nobles often held titles such as count, baron, or duke and were integral to the governance and military of the kingdom. Throughout the centuries, the Hungarian nobility contributed to the cultural and economic development of Hungary. They were patrons of the arts and education, establishing institutions and supporting local artisans. The decline of the nobility began in the 19th century, particularly after the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, which transformed the political landscape of the region.