Historical Encyclopedia
The territory of modern Moldova has been inhabited by people since ancient times. Archaeological finds indicate that the first settlements appeared here more than 10,000 years ago. The Starčevo–Kriševac culture and the Cucuteni–Trypillar culture, which thrived in the territories of modern Moldova, Romania, and Ukraine, left a significant mark. These ancient communities engaged in agriculture, livestock breeding, as well as hunting and fishing.
In the late Neolithic period, crafts developed in the territory of Moldova and social differentiation began. The first settlements organized in the form of fortified sites emerged, indicating a complex social structure and developed trade. These cultures left behind unique artifacts, among which are ceramic products, ritual items, and ornaments.
In the 1st millennium BC, various nomadic peoples began to penetrate the territory of modern Moldova. The Thracian tribes appeared here, followed later by the Getae and Dacians. These peoples came into contact with Greek colonies on the Black Sea, promoting cultural and trade exchanges. Over time, settlements of the Getae and Dacians consolidated in the territory of modern Moldova, whose culture included elements from both local traditions and the influence of Greek civilization.
In the 2nd century BC and the early 1st century AD, the region gradually came under the influence of the Roman Empire. The Romans established fortified camps and roads, facilitating the integration of the region into the economic and political system of the empire. After the conquest of the Dacian Kingdom by Roman Emperor Trajan in 106 AD, the territory of modern Moldova was for a time under Roman control, bringing with it elements of Roman culture, language, and building techniques.
During the era of the Great Migration, the region faced frequent raids by various nomadic tribes. Starting in the 4th century, the Goths, Huns, Avars, and Slavic tribes began to penetrate this area. By the end of the 9th century, the influence of Kievan Rus gradually spread to the territory of Moldova, followed later by that of the Galician-Volhynian principality.
In the 14th century, the Principality of Moldavia was formed in the territory between the Carpathians and the Dniester, founded by the voivode Dragoș. His successor, Voivode Bogdan I, strengthened the principality's independence from Hungary. Bogdan I is considered the founder of the independent Principality of Moldavia, and his reign marks the beginning of the state's independent history.
In the second half of the 15th century, the Principality of Moldavia was ruled by Stephen III the Great, one of the most famous and revered rulers in the country's history. He managed to strengthen the state, expand its territory, and successfully resist threats from the Ottoman Empire, Poland, and Hungary. Stephen implemented a series of reforms aimed at enhancing central authority and built and fortified several fortresses for protection against invasions.
Stephen the Great also made significant contributions to the development of culture and the Orthodox faith. During his reign, many monasteries and churches were built, which are considered masterpieces of Moldavian architecture. For his services to the state and the people, Stephen was awarded the title "Great" and was canonized by the Orthodox Church.
After the death of Stephen the Great in the late 15th century, the Principality of Moldavia faced growing pressure from the Ottoman Empire. In the early 16th century, the principality recognized vassal dependence on the sultan, which led to limitations on sovereignty and tribute payments. Nevertheless, Moldavian rulers retained a significant degree of autonomy, allowing them to manage internal affairs and maintain cultural and religious traditions.
Over the following centuries, Moldova remained under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, although it often retained relative independence in governance. Despite constant wars and threats, the principality managed to preserve its culture, language, and traditions. During this period, the arts, literature, and crafts developed, laying the foundation for the formation of Moldavian national identity.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Ottoman Empire began to lose influence in the region. As a result of the Russo-Turkish wars, the Principality of Moldavia came under the control of the Russian Empire, and in 1812, according to the Treaty of Bucharest, the eastern part of the principality (the territory between the Prut and Dniester rivers) was ceded to Russia, forming a new province – Bessarabia.
Under the rule of the Russian Empire, Bessarabia received certain privileges, including the right to use the Moldavian language and partial autonomy. However, over time, the policy of Russification intensified, leading to a reduction in the rights of Moldovans. In response, movements began to emerge in the region to preserve national identity and revive cultural traditions.
After the end of World War I and the revolution in Russia, Bessarabia proclaimed independence and then, in 1918, joined Romania. This step was supported by the local population, which sought unification with Romania based on a shared culture and language. However, this act caused tension in relations with Soviet Russia, which did not recognize the annexation of Bessarabia.
In the interwar period, Bessarabia was part of Romania, which contributed to its integration into the economic and political system of the country. During this period, steps were taken to develop agriculture, education, and infrastructure, although the region remained predominantly agrarian.
In 1940, after the conclusion of the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact, the Soviet Union issued an ultimatum to Romania demanding the return of Bessarabia. Romania was forced to concede, and the territory of Bessarabia became part of the USSR, forming the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic (MSSR).
In the postwar period, the MSSR underwent intense Sovietization, which led to the suppression of national culture and the imposition of Soviet values. At the same time, industry was developed, new enterprises, roads, and housing were built. Despite attempts at Russification, Moldavian culture and language continued to exist and evolve, albeit under strict control of the Soviet authorities.
In the late 1980s, processes of perestroika and democratization began in the Soviet Union, leading to the activation of national movements. In 1991, Moldova declared independence and exited the USSR. In the initial stage of independence, the country faced economic difficulties and conflicts, including the Transnistrian conflict, which remains unresolved to this day.
Modern Moldova is oriented towards integration into European structures and strengthening its national identity. Despite challenges, the country continues to move towards democratic reforms and economic development, preserving its unique culture and history.
The history of Moldova is a long journey from ancient civilizations to a modern state, rich in events, challenges, and achievements. It has left a unique mark on the culture and self-awareness of the Moldavian people, who have preserved their individuality and pride in their homeland.