This approach clearly crossed the limits of what the nobles could tolerate. They were nowhere near ready to break completely with Austria, much less cross that chasm.
The wealthy merchant-capitalists were also strongly opposed. The Austrian Empire's economy had been thriving in recent years, and even without Franz's interference, Austria was a far more attractive place to invest than Hungary.
Much of Hungary's capital had flowed into Austria over the years, earning them enormous profits. That was why the merchants and capitalists' influence kept growing.
But these people were, at heart, driven by profit. They would never leave their earnings sitting at home, nor would they invest in Hungary, where the returns were far lower than in Austria.
Their interests, then, meant they had no resolve to fight Austria to the bitter end.
But with the war going badly and debts piling up, Lajos Kossuth had no choice but to seek a new solution. This radical nationalist policy suited him perfectly; previously, the nobles and capitalists had kept him from pursuing it.
Now, however, the nobles and capitalists clearly couldn't be relied upon. None of them were willing to lend more money to Hungary's fledgling government.
Kossuth wanted to take what he needed himself, but unfortunately, the other side had guns and an army.
Petofi, who had just returned to Buda–Pest, voiced his concerns.
"Mr. Kossuth, if this policy is expanded, it may lead to a situation we can no longer control. We should first win over those who are devoted to our great Hungary and bring them into our cause.
That should include the Germans who have occupied our land. If they are willing to speak Hungarian and join us in fighting the evil Austrian Empire, they can have land of their own.
I have been to Vienna. The