Nobility in Hungary has a long history, dating back to the medieval period when the Kingdom of Hungary was established. The noble class played a significant role in governance, land ownership, and military service. Nobles were granted privileges, including tax exemptions and the right to bear arms, in exchange for loyalty to the crown. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the nobility became more structured, with titles such as count and baron being common. The 19th century saw the rise of a wealthy bourgeoisie, which began to challenge the traditional power of the nobility. Following World War II, the nobility's influence diminished significantly due to land reforms and the establishment of a communist regime.