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For many Jewish students, like Wigner and von Neumann, the fields of physics and mathematics were avenues for meritocracy during a time when anti-Semitism was prevalent in Europe. A culture of peace and acceptance had initially thrived under Emperor Franz Joseph I, allowing Jews to integrate into society more freely. However, this progress came crashing down after World War I, as nationalism surged, leading to the rise of right-wing regimes that discriminated against Jewish citizens.
Many talented Jewish scientists felt the need to adapt drastically. Some converted to Christianity to escape discrimination, while others sought brighter futures elsewhere as Hungary's political landscape darkened with anti-Semitic sentiments.