Some of the facts of 1956 still need clarification, according to the authors, since misunderstanding and even misrepresentation is widespread. The authors seek to provide that clarification, amplifying their text with primary documents, photographs and maps, and a rich bibliography. Milovan Djilas, the Yugoslav writer, poet, and statesman, predicted that the Hungarian Revolution would be the beginning of the end of the Soviet Empire. Raymond Aron prophesied that 1956 was even in its defeat a victory. This book tests their vision.