In this electrifying episode, we uncover how King Matthias Corvinus – the legendary Raven King – stood as the last true Christian monarch to confront the rising Ottoman threat with both pen and sword.
⚔️ Matthias rebuilt Hungary's second line of defense on the southern borderland, held strongholds deep in enemy territory, and risked his own life in combat to beat back the Turks.
🏇 His feared Black Army not only terrified Europe but also marched to Italy’s rescue, liberating Otranto from Ottoman occupation. What if he had not sent there troops?
🛡️ And when the Sultan’s troops swarmed into Transylvania, it was his general Kinizsi Pál who met them in open battle at Kenyérmező (Breadfield)—and shattered the myth of Ottoman invincibility that had haunted Europe since the disastrous Battle of Várna in 1444.
📜 When Pope Innocent VIII considered handing over the Ottoman prince Djem to the sultan for some money, Matthias fired off a furious letter warning that if Christendom betrayed the cause, Hungary would not fall silently. Was his response heard? What if he could receive the Turk usurper in his court and launch his long-dreamed campaign after taking Vienna?
🔥 An epic tale of diplomacy, strategy, and sheer defiance against overwhelming odds.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, or your favorite platform.
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🚩 The ONLY English-language podcast dedicated entirely to Hungarian history.
You can also read some more details on my page: https://www.hungarianottomanwars.com/essays/was-king-matthias-related-to-sultan-mohamed-ii/