Even during the communist regime, Hungary was considered one of the most prosperous and open countries in Eastern Europe. It was one of the first to announce sweeping reforms and was able to accomplish them without violence or serious upheaval. Hungarians also view their past achievements and their artists and composers with pride. Accompanying pride, however, is a historical tendency for pessimism. Individual Hungarians will express doubt about their own future or condition, even if their neighbors are worse off.
Hungarian humor incorporates pessimism, which then becomes a whimsical, light-hearted cynicism.
Some say pessimism is only natural for Hungarians. Individually, Hungarians value independence, a strong and stable family, education, security, property, access to or ownership of summer cottages, and travel outside of Hungary. People admire professionals but do not generally admire the wealthy, who are often associated with corruption. Recreation Hungary's most popular sport is soccer. Other important sports include swimming, tennis, fencing, and sailing.