Soviet tanks fired on unarmed Hungarians on Bloody Thursday

On October 25, 1956, the bloodiest event of the Hungarian Revolution occurred, resulting in an estimated 75 to 100 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Initially, the Hungarian leadership was caught off guard by the revolution's outbreak, leading to conflicting responses. On that day, thousands gathered at Kossuth Square, where some protesters befriended Soviet tank crews. However, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when gunfire erupted from rooftops, targeting the unarmed crowd. The exact cause of the shooting remains unclear, with theories suggesting either Soviet orders or actions by the secret police. This incident marked the most violent day of the revolution, igniting widespread anger against the authorities and escalating the conflict into armed resistance.