King Stephen I, also known as Saint Stephen, was a significant figure in the establishment of the Hungarian state and its Christianization. He was crowned as the first king of Hungary in the year 1000, recognized by Pope Sylvester II. His reign was pivotal, marked by the unification of various tribes and the establishment of a centralized governance model. Stephen implemented a range of ecclesiastical reforms that laid the groundwork for the Church's influence in Hungarian politics and society. His efforts in promoting Christianity set Hungary on a path to become an integral part of European Christendom.

Upon his death in 1038, Hungary faced a significant challenge regarding succession as Stephen's direct descendants were unable to assume the throne. Instead, his nephew, Peter Orseolo, was chosen following some disputes among the nobles about the rightful heir to the crown. Peter, who had been raised in Venice, brought a different perspective to Hungarian leadership and aimed to consolidate the kingdom amid the political instability following Stephen’s death.

Peter's ascension was not without controversy, as it was felt that he represented foreign interests that could undermine Hungary’s sovereignty. His rule, while initially welcomed by some, eventually led to tensions with influential Hungarian nobles who favored retaining a more indigenous Swedish dynasty. These tensions would later culminate in Peter's exile, which opened the door for the return of Stephen's descendent, leading to the continued evolution of Hungary's monarchy.