who was the hungarian nationalist who led the fight for independence against austria in the 1800s?

Answer 1

There were many nationalists, although the primary one was Kossuth Lajos (aka Louis Kossuth). His role was defined as Regent-President, and almost a virtual dictator during his short time as leader of Hungary. There were other leaders, mainly military, who provided great assistance:

Jozef Bem: Originally from Poland, he joined Kossuth and was the military commander in Transylvania, successfully holding his ground until the Russians decided to enter the uprising. Against overwhelming odds, he fought back although Transylvania was lost. Wounded in the final battle, he went into exile. He is regarded as a national hero in Hungary.

Lajos Batthany: He was a high ranking and very competent commander who was wounded and captured in battle. He was then executed by firing squad. He has a square named after him near the Hungarian Parliament, as well as a law school.

Lazar Meszaros: Minister of War during the Revolution, he organized Hungary's defensive army and took control of the southern forces in what is now Vojvodina.

Henryk Dembinski: Of Poland, he joined the Revolution and commanded the northern armies. He was initially successful, but after his defeat by the Austrians at Kapolna, he resigned his position.

The Hungarians had competent leadership but faced impossible odds once the Russians entered the war. Kossuth later came to America and gave a speech before Congress seeking support for Hungary.

Answer 2

Lajos Kossuth - see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lajos_Kossuth

Answer 3

http://hungaria.org/kossuth/