Maurice Benyovszky (Hungarian: Móric Benyovszky, Slovak: Móric Beňovský), the renowned traveller, led a life that resembles the pages of an adventure novel, captivating the imagination of both Hungarian and Slovak public opinion. The question of his nationality is a subject of great interest, with both sides laying claim to him and presenting arguments to support their assertions. Born into a Hungarian noble family, Benyovszky's Slovak origin is also supported by numerous documents and the fact that he spoke the Slovak language. However, his life transcended the borders of Hungary, taking him on daring adventures across continents. In his quest for adventure, Benyovszky twice escaped from captivity, only to be captured a third time and exiled to Kamchatka, a remote Russian peninsula. From there, he embarked on a journey that led him through uncharted territories, becoming the first European to map many places along the way. Joining the military in France, Benyovszky explored Mauritius and Madagascar before briefly returning to Hungary. However, his wanderlust persisted, and he resumed his travels. His remarkable correspondence included exchanges with notable figures such as George Washington. Benyovszky's odyssey eventually led him back to Madagascar, where he was elected as "king" by the local inhabitants. His adventurous spirit, coupled with his cultural complexity, continues to fascinate and inspire to this day, leaving his true nationality a subject of enduring debate.