Who was Basarab III cel Bătrân, and what was his primary role?

Basarab III cel Bătrân, also known by the aliases Laiotă Basarab or Basarab Laiotă, was a ruler of the Principality of Wallachia during the 1470s. The title 'cel Bătrân' translates to 'the Old', distinguishing him from other rulers named Basarab.

What were the specific periods Basarab the Old reigned as Prince of Wallachia?

Basarab the Old held the title of Prince of Wallachia during several distinct periods in the 1470s. These reigns included November to December 1473, spring 1474, September to October 1474, January 1475 to November 1476, and finally from December 1476 to November 1477.

Who was Basarab the Old's father, and to which house did he belong?

Basarab the Old's father was Dan II of Wallachia. Basarab himself belonged to the House of Dănești, a significant Wallachian dynasty.

When did Basarab the Old die?

Basarab the Old died on December 22, 1480.

What event led Basarab the Old to make his initial claim to the Wallachian throne?

Basarab the Old laid claim to Wallachia after his brother, Vladislav II of Wallachia, was killed in a duel in 1456 by their cousin, Vlad Dracula. This made Basarab the third individual to contend for the Wallachian throne against Dracula.

Describe the circumstances surrounding Vlad Dracula's invasion of Wallachia and subsequent death in relation to Basarab the Old.

In November 1476, Vlad Dracula invaded Wallachia with support from Hungarian and Moldavian forces, compelling Basarab the Old to seek refuge in the Ottoman Empire. However, Basarab eventually returned, and Vlad Dracula was assassinated either in late 1476 or early 1477.

How many times was Basarab the Old elected as Voivode by the boyars?

Basarab the Old was elected as Voivode by the boyars on five separate occasions, demonstrating significant, albeit intermittent, support from the Wallachian nobility.

How many times did Basarab the Old succeed the same ruler, Radu cel Frumos?

Basarab the Old succeeded Radu cel Frumos as ruler on four separate occasions, indicating a period of political instability and frequent shifts in leadership.

What was the relationship between Basarab the Old's reigns and the rule of Vlad III the Impaler?

Two of Basarab the Old's reigns occurred during the final period when Vlad III the Impaler was actively ruling over Wallachia, highlighting their overlapping and contested leadership.

What practice did Basarab the Old share with other notable Wallachian rulers regarding his nobility?

Similar to contemporary rulers such as Mircea the Elder, Vlad the Impaler, and Radu the Fair, Basarab the Old regularly granted estates to his boyars. He also bestowed the title of boyar upon the heads of local communities.

Did Basarab the Old participate in any significant battles mentioned in the text?

Yes, Basarab the Old participated in the Battle of Breadfield in 1479.

What does the term 'cel Bătrân' mean, and why might it be significant?

The Romanian term 'cel Bătrân' translates to 'the Old'. It is often used to distinguish an individual from others with the same name, suggesting there might have been other prominent figures named Basarab, possibly younger ones, during that historical period.

What does the title 'Voivode' signify in the context of Wallachia?

In the context of Wallachia, 'Voivode' was the title used for the ruling prince or military governor. It denoted the supreme leader of the principality, responsible for its administration and defense.

What does the term 'boyar' refer to in Wallachian society?

In Wallachian society, boyars were members of the high nobility. They held significant political and economic power, often influencing the succession and policies of the ruling princes.

What does the term 'Principality of Wallachia' refer to?

The Principality of Wallachia was a historical state located in Southeastern Europe, corresponding to the territory of modern-day Romania. It existed from the early 13th century until the mid-19th century, often under the suzerainty of larger powers like the Ottoman Empire, Hungary, or Poland.

What does the term 'House of Dănești' signify?

The House of Dănești was one of the two major rival dynasties, along with the House of Basarab (Drăculești branch), that vied for the throne of Wallachia during the medieval period. Membership in such a house indicated a claim to rule based on lineage.

What does the term 'Eastern Orthodox' refer to?

Eastern Orthodox refers to a major branch of Christianity that originated in the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. It is characterized by its distinct theology, liturgy, and hierarchical structure, with the Patriarch of Constantinople historically holding a position of primacy.

What does the term 'stub' mean in the context of Wikipedia articles?

In Wikipedia, a 'stub' is a very short article containing only a small amount of information. Stub notices, like those present for Basarab the Old, indicate that the article could be expanded with more details and context.

What does the image associated with Basarab the Old depict?

The image associated with Basarab the Old is a portrait identified as Laiota. The accompanying file information suggests it is a painting.

What does the term 'pretender' imply in the context of Basarab the Old's claim to the throne?

The term 'pretender' implies that Basarab the Old was someone who claimed the throne or title of Wallachia, possibly without full or universally recognized legitimacy at all times, especially in opposition to other claimants or established rulers.

How did Basarab the Old's claim to the throne in 1456 relate to Vlad Dracula?

Basarab the Old claimed the Wallachian throne in 1456 following the death of his brother, Vladislav II, who was killed by their cousin, Vlad Dracula. This established an immediate rivalry between Basarab and Vlad Dracula for control of Wallachia.

What happened to Vlad Dracula after Basarab the Old returned from the Ottoman Empire?

After Basarab the Old returned from the Ottoman Empire, Vlad Dracula, whom he had previously fled from, was murdered. This occurred in late 1476 or early 1477.

How does Basarab the Old's pattern of succession compare to that of Dan II?

Basarab the Old repeated the pattern established by Dan II in that both were elected Voivode by the boyars on five occasions. This suggests a history of contested leadership and the significant role of the nobility in determining the ruler.

What does the succession box indicate about the frequency of leadership changes in Wallachia during Basarab the Old's time?

The succession box clearly illustrates the high frequency of leadership changes in Wallachia during Basarab the Old's era. It shows multiple successions and predecessors, often involving the same individuals like Radu cel Frumos and Vlad the Impaler, highlighting a period of political volatility.

What does the term 'House of Dănești' signify in relation to Wallachian dynastic struggles?

The House of Dănești was a rival dynasty to the House of Basarab (Drăculești branch) that frequently contested for the throne of Wallachia. Basarab the Old's affiliation with this house places him within these ongoing dynastic conflicts.

What does the term 'Principality' mean in the context of Wallachia?

A 'Principality' refers to a territory ruled by a prince. In the case of Wallachia, it signifies a state with its own distinct political entity, governed by a Voivode or Prince, though often subject to the influence or suzerainty of larger empires.

What does the term 'Laiotă' signify in relation to Basarab III?

Laiotă is an alternative name or epithet associated with Basarab III. Its exact meaning or origin is not detailed in the text, but it is used interchangeably with Basarab III cel Bătrân.

What was the political context of Wallachia in the 1470s, as suggested by Basarab the Old's career?

The political context of Wallachia in the 1470s was characterized by frequent changes in rule, contested claims to the throne, and the involvement of external powers like the Ottoman Empire, Hungary, and Moldavia. Basarab the Old's multiple, often short-lived, reigns exemplify this instability.

What does the citation 'Florescu & McNally 1989, pp. 115–116' refer to?

This citation refers to the book 'Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and his Times' by Radu R. Florescu and Raymond T. McNally, specifically pages 115 to 116, likely containing information related to Basarab the Old's claim to the throne after his brother's death.

What does the citation 'Hasan 2013, p. 157' refer to?

This citation points to a work by Mihai Florin Hasan published in 2013, likely titled 'Aspecte ale relațiilor matrimoniale munteano-maghiare din secolele XIV-XV' (Aspects of the Hungarian-Wallachian matrimonial relations of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries), found in 'Revista Bistriței', volume XXVII, on page 157. It likely discusses events related to Basarab the Old's flight to the Ottoman Empire and Vlad Dracula's invasion.

What does the citation 'Costea 2009, p. 216' refer to?

This citation refers to Ionuț Costea's contribution titled 'Social Structures' within 'The History of Transylvania, Volume II (From 1541 to 1711)', published in 2009. Page 216 likely contains details about Basarab the Old's practice of granting estates and titles.

What was the significance of Basarab the Old joining the Battle of Breadfield in 1479?

Basarab the Old's participation in the Battle of Breadfield in 1479 indicates his involvement in major military conflicts of the era, likely aligning with Hungarian or allied forces against the Ottoman Empire, a common geopolitical struggle for Wallachian rulers.

Who was the predecessor before Basarab the Old's reign from January 1475 to November 1476?

The predecessor before Basarab the Old's reign from January 1475 to November 1476 was Radu cel Frumos.

Who was the successor after Basarab the Old's reign from January 1475 to November 1476?

The successor after Basarab the Old's reign from January 1475 to November 1476 was Vlad the Impaler.

Who was the predecessor before Basarab the Old's final reign from December 1476 to November 1477?

The predecessor before Basarab the Old's final reign from December 1476 to November 1477 was Vlad the Impaler.

Who was the successor after Basarab the Old's final reign from December 1476 to November 1477?

The successor after Basarab the Old's final reign from December 1476 to November 1477 was Basarab Țepeluș cel Tânăr (Basarab the Young).

What does the stub notice regarding Romanian biography imply about the article's content?

The stub notice suggests that the article on Basarab the Old, while providing basic information, is incomplete and could be expanded. It indicates that further details about his life and contributions might exist but are not yet included.

What does the stub notice regarding European nobility imply about Basarab the Old?

The stub notice classifying the article as relating to European nobility suggests that Basarab the Old, as a ruling prince of Wallachia, is considered within the broader context of European aristocratic and royal figures, despite Wallachia's distinct historical trajectory.

What is the significance of Basarab the Old belonging to the House of Dănești?

Basarab the Old belonging to the House of Dănești signifies his lineage and claim to the throne of Wallachia, placing him in opposition to rival dynasties like the House of Basarab (Drăculești branch) during periods of dynastic struggle.

What does the term 'Voivode of Wallachia' mean in terms of political power?

The title 'Voivode of Wallachia' signifies the supreme ruler of the principality, holding both military and administrative authority. It was the primary title for the head of state in Wallachia during the medieval period.

What does the term 'Principality' imply about Wallachia's status?

The term 'Principality' implies that Wallachia was a distinct political entity ruled by a prince (Voivode). While it often existed under the suzerainty of larger empires like the Ottoman Empire, it maintained a degree of internal autonomy and governance.

What does the term 'House of Dănești' suggest about Wallachian succession?

The existence of the House of Dănești, alongside other ruling houses, suggests that Wallachian succession was often determined by dynastic rivalries and power struggles between prominent noble families.

What does the term 'Eastern Orthodox' religion imply about cultural influences in Wallachia?

The adherence to Eastern Orthodox Christianity implies significant cultural and religious ties between Wallachia and the Byzantine Empire, as well as other Orthodox regions like Bulgaria and Serbia, influencing its art, architecture, and political identity.

What does the term 'boyar' imply about the social structure of Wallachia?

The term 'boyar' implies a hierarchical social structure in Wallachia where a powerful landowning aristocracy held significant influence. Their role in electing or supporting rulers was crucial to political stability.

What does the term 'stub' in Wikipedia signify about the available information on Basarab the Old?

The 'stub' classification indicates that the Wikipedia article on Basarab the Old is a starting point, containing fundamental facts but lacking depth. It suggests that more comprehensive details about his life, reign, and impact could be added.

What does the term 'cel Bătrân' suggest about Basarab III's identity?

The epithet 'cel Bătrân', meaning 'the Old', suggests that Basarab III was likely an older figure compared to other rulers of the same name or that it served to differentiate him within the lineage, possibly indicating a longer or more established presence.

What does the term 'Laiotă' suggest about Basarab III?

The use of 'Laiotă' as an alternative name or epithet for Basarab III suggests a possible nickname or a variation of his name used in historical records, possibly reflecting regional or familial usage.

What does the succession box imply about the political stability of Wallachia in the 1470s?

The succession box implies significant political instability in Wallachia during the 1470s, evidenced by the frequent changes in rulers, including multiple successions and predecessors, often involving the same figures like Radu cel Frumos and Vlad the Impaler.

What does the text suggest about the relationship between Basarab the Old and his brother Vladislav II?

The text suggests that Basarab the Old and Vladislav II were brothers. Basarab's claim to the throne arose after Vladislav II was killed by their cousin, Vlad Dracula, implying a familial connection and potential rivalry within the ruling elite.

What does the text suggest about the relationship between Basarab the Old and his cousin Vlad Dracula?

The text indicates a direct rivalry between Basarab the Old and his cousin, Vlad Dracula. Basarab claimed the throne after Vlad Dracula killed their brother, and later, Vlad Dracula invaded Wallachia, forcing Basarab to flee, only for Vlad Dracula to be murdered shortly after Basarab's return.

Basarab the Old: A Ruler in Tumultuous Times

An in-depth exploration of the life, multiple reigns, and historical context of Basarab III, Voivode of Wallachia, during the volatile 15th century.

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Biography

Basarab III: The Old, Laiotă Basarab

Basarab III, known historically as "the Old" or Laiotă Basarab, served as the Voivode of the Principality of Wallachia during several periods within the 15th century, notably in the 1470s. His tenure was marked by significant political instability and frequent shifts in power, characteristic of the era's dynastic struggles and external pressures.

Claim to the Throne and Early Struggles

The political landscape of 15th-century Wallachia was notoriously volatile, characterized by intense dynastic rivalries. Following the fatal duel between his brother, Vladislav II, and their cousin, Vlad Dracula, in 1456, Basarab III, known as Laiotă, emerged as a significant claimant to the Wallachian throne. This period saw him challenging Dracula's authority, a struggle that necessitated his eventual flight to the Ottoman Empire in November 1476, seeking refuge amidst Vlad Dracula's invasion of Wallachia.^[1]

Multiple Ascensions and Political Maneuvering

Basarab III's tenure as Voivode was marked by its episodic nature, ascending to the princely throne on five distinct occasions. This pattern of frequent successions and depositions was common in the region, reflecting the complex interplay between internal factions and external powers. He repeatedly succeeded Radu cel Frumos and his reigns were notably interspersed with those of the more infamous Vlad III the Impaler. Like many rulers of his era who sought to consolidate power, Basarab engaged in the customary practice of granting estates and privileges to his boyars and local community leaders, a strategy aimed at securing loyalty and maintaining political stability, however transient.^[4]

Later Life and Participation in Conflict

Basarab III participated in the significant Battle of Breadfield in 1479, a pivotal engagement against the Ottoman Empire. He passed away on December 22, 1480, leaving behind a complex legacy as a ruler who navigated the turbulent political landscape of 15th-century Wallachia.^[2]

Reign Details

Voivode of Wallachia

Basarab III held the title of Voivode of Wallachia on multiple occasions, demonstrating his persistent claim and the fluid political dynamics of the period. His reigns were often brief and contested, reflecting the era's instability.

Basarab the Old
Prince of Wallachia
Reign	November – December 1473
Predecessor	Radu cel Frumos
Successor	Radu cel Frumos
Prince of Wallachia
Reign	Spring 1474
Predecessor	Radu cel Frumos
Successor	Radu cel Frumos
Prince of Wallachia
Reign	September – October 1474
Predecessor	Radu cel Frumos
Successor	Radu cel Frumos
Prince of Wallachia
Reign	January 1475 – November 1476
Predecessor	Radu cel Frumos
Successor	Vlad the Impaler
Prince of Wallachia
Reign	December 1476 – November 1477
Predecessor	Vlad the Impaler
Successor	Basarab Țepeluș cel Tânăr

Succession Dynamics

Basarab III's repeated ascensions and successions highlight the complex political landscape and the frequent power struggles within Wallachia during the 15th century. His relationship with figures like Radu cel Frumos and Vlad the Impaler underscores the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that defined the era.

Regnal titles
Basarab the Old House of Dănești Died: 1480
Preceded by Radu the Handsome	Voivode of Wallachia 1473	Succeeded by Radu the Handsome
	Voivode of Wallachia 1474
	Voivode of Wallachia 1474
	Voivode of Wallachia 1475–1476	Succeeded by Vlad the Impaler
Preceded by Vlad the Impaler	Voivode of Wallachia 1476–1477	Succeeded by Basarab the Young

Family and Lineage

House of Dănești

Basarab III belonged to the influential House of Dănești, a significant lineage that vied for control of Wallachia during the medieval period. This house was a major player in the region's complex political history.

Paternal Lineage

His father was Dan II of Wallachia, a notable figure whose own reign and lineage contributed to the ongoing dynastic struggles within the principality. This paternal connection places Basarab III within a long line of rulers and claimants.

Religious Affiliation

Basarab III adhered to the Eastern Orthodox faith, which was the predominant religion in Wallachia and played a significant role in the cultural and political identity of the region during the medieval period.

Sources and Bibliography

Primary References

The information presented here is synthesized from scholarly works and historical records concerning the period.

^ Florescu & McNally 1989, pp. 115–116.
^ ^a ^b Hasan 2013, p. 157.
^ Florescu & McNally 1989, pp. 172–175.
^ Costea 2009, p. 216.

Scholarly Works

Key publications that provide context and detail on the history of Wallachia and its rulers.

Hasan, Mihai Florin (2013). "Aspecte ale relațiilor matrimoniale munteano-maghiare din secolele XIV-XV [Aspects of the Hungarian-Wallachian matrimonial relations of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries]". Revista Bistriței (in Romanian). XXVII. Cumplexul Muzeal Bistrița-Năsăud: 128–159. ISSN 1222-5096.
Costea, Ionuț (2009). "Social Structures". In Pop, Ioan-Aurel; Năgler, Thomas; Magyari, András (eds.). The History of Transylvania, Volume II (From 1541 to 1711). Romanian Academy, Center for Transylvanian Studies. pp. 199–225. ISBN 978-973-7784-04-9.
Florescu, Radu R.; McNally, Raymond T. (1989). Dracula, Prince of Many Faces: His Life and his Times. Back Bay Books. ISBN 978-0-316-28656-5.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Historical interpretations can vary, and this content reflects a specific synthesis of the provided source material.

This is not professional historical analysis. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for scholarly research or consultation with professional historians. Always refer to primary sources and academic literature for a comprehensive understanding of historical events and figures.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Basarab the Old: A Ruler in Tumultuous Times

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biography 📜

👑 Basarab III: The Old, Laiotă Basarab

⚔️ Claim to the Throne and Early Struggles

🔄 Multiple Ascensions and Political Maneuvering

🕊️ Later Life and Participation in Conflict

Reign Details 🗓️

👑 Voivode of Wallachia

🏛️ Succession Dynamics

Family and Lineage 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🌳 House of Dănești

👴 Paternal Lineage

🙏 Religious Affiliation

Sources and Bibliography 📚

📖 Primary References

✍️ Scholarly Works

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice