A Comprehensive History of Romania and Its People: From Vassal Principalities to Modern Times
When we talk about Romania, one wonders how a country came to be from its prehistoric origins to the modern state it is today. The history of the Romanian people and their nation is rich and complex, shaped by invasions, vassalage, and internal shifts that have defined their cultural identity over the centuries.
Origins of the Romanian Principalities
The history of modern Romania begins with the establishment of the Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia in the early 14th century. These principalities were initially vassals of larger medieval empires, providing them with a form of self-governance while being part of something larger. This arrangement allowed them to exist as independent trading entities on the borders of much greater players, a strategy that can be seen as a form of historical realism.
The origins of both Wallachia and Moldavia saw them adopting the court legacy from neighboring countries such as Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary, because no internal traditions had survived the nomadic invasions from the Eurasian plains. The Slavonic tradition became dominant, as both Bulgaria and Serbia fell under Ottoman control in the 14th century.
Transition to the West
The Danubian principalities remained culturally attached to the Slavonic Orthodox tradition until the 17th century when they shifted towards a more Western influence. This shift was due to the arrival of the Habsburg monarchy and the declining power of the Ottoman Empire. Scholars like Dimitrie Cantemir offer insights into the mentality of Romanian elites at this time, which likely influenced the cultural shift.
The shift towards the West proved beneficial during the Russo-Ottoman wars, as the Danubian principalities might have otherwise been absorbed by Russia. With direct access to a neutral viewpoint on the conflict, the political elites were able to navigate between the interests of the two major belligerents. This era saw both demographic growth and increased cultural and economic exchanges with the West, primarily through the Bosporus straits and the lower Danube after the Treaty of Paris in 1856. These developments laid the groundwork for the unification of the Danubian principalities into a new country: Romania.
Modernization and Unification
Romania declared and obtained its independence in 1878 and became a constitutional monarchy shortly after. Following World War I, Romania annexed territories inhabited by Romanian speakers, increasing its size significantly. Four monarchs from the same dynasty, the Hohenzollern, ruled until a communist regime was imposed by the Soviet Union following World War II. This period of communist rule lasted for several decades and ended with a bloody revolution in 1989.
After the fall of communism, Romania reestablished its traditional ties with the West, joining NATO and the European Union in the early 2000s. This reflects a profound shift from its earlier vassal status to a more independent and integrated European nation.
Conclusion
Romania's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people. From the invasions by nomadic empires to the shift towards Western influence, and finally to its unification and modernization, Romania has experienced a transformative journey. Each period in its history has contributed to the rich cultural and political landscape that Romania enjoys today.