The Vitézi Rend, also known as the Order of Vitéz, is a Hungarian chivalric order founded in 1920 during the interwar period of the Kingdom of Hungary under Regent Miklós Horthy. Originally established as a state honor to recognize military merit and contributions to national defense, it was awarded to Hungarian citizens, particularly World War I veterans and those involved in counter-revolutionary efforts following the 1919 communist takeover. The order embodied conservative, nationalist values and was closely tied to the Horthy regime's authoritarian policies, including alliances with Nazi Germany during World War II. Membership conferred noble status and privileges, such as tax exemptions, and its insignia and traditions drew from medieval knightly orders, reinforcing a romanticized vision of Hungarian aristocracy and militarism. Historically, it has been associated with far-right ideologies, anti-Semitism, and support for irredentist claims to territories lost after World War I, with many members involved in pro-Axis activities. The order was dissolved in 1945 following Hungary's defeat in World War II and banned under the subsequent communist regime. Efforts to revive it emerged after the fall of communism in 1989, leading to multiple successor organizations claiming legitimacy, such as the Hungarian Vitézi Order and international branches. These revivals have been controversial, with disputes over authentic succession and accusations of promoting extremist nationalism, including anti-Semitic elements, Holocaust denial, and links to neo-fascist groups. In recent years, it has drawn international attention due to associations with figures like Sebastian Gorka, sparking debates over far-right connections. The Vitézi Rend remains a polarizing entity in contemporary Hungary, often condemned by Jewish organizations and human rights groups for its legacy of collaboration with Nazi-aligned forces during the deportation of Hungarian Jews in 1944. Legal challenges and government recognitions have varied, with some branches operating as private associations while others seek official status. Its influence persists in nationalist circles as a potential network for conservative elites, though its activities are scrutinized for fostering exclusionary ideologies.