From elites to nomenklatura

The evolution and some characteristics of institutionalized cadre policy in Hungary (1945–1989)

Abstract

Based on empirical research the paper summarizes the social and institutional characteristics of the birth and reproduction of the Hungarian nomenklatura system. The research included the reconstruction of the decision making system, and the documents of recruitment. Moreover interviews were conducted with several top officials of the Hungarian Socialist Workers Party. The paper argues that although there was a chance to form new elite after World War II., it did not happen because of the infiltration of the Communist Party into the repressive organizations. The take-over of power led to the formation of a nomenklatura.
The paper overviews the impact of the nomenklatura-system on the working of central institutions, the academic world and civil organizations. It investigates the documents dealing with the composition of the nomenklaktura and the privileges of its members.