Subject
Romania Books
Best books
Eugene K. Keefe
Area Handbook for Romania
"Area Handbook for Romania" by Eugene K. Keefe, Donald W. Bernier, Lyle E. Brenneman, William Giloane, James M. Moore, Jr., and Neda A. Walpole is a comprehensive reference work written in the early 1970s. This handbook focuses on providing a detailed overview of Romania's political, social, and economic structures during the communist era, particularly under the leadership of Nicolae Ceausescu. It aims to furnish military and other personnel with objective and factual information about the country as it sought to assert its independence from Soviet influence. The opening of the handbook includes a foreword and a preface outlining its purpose and objectives. It provides a historical context, noting Romania's transformation from a kingdom to a communist state post-World War II, and discusses the challenges faced as the country attempted to navigate its autonomy within the Eastern European communist bloc. The authors highlight Romania's initial alignment with the Soviet Union, the eventual pursuit of an independent foreign policy, and the consequences of these political maneuvers on the social and economic fabric of Romanian society during the early 1970s. The stage is set for a comprehensive exploration of the various components of Romanian life, from governance to daily living conditions, as the handbook progresses.
William Eleroy Curtis
Around the Black Sea Asia Minor, Armenia, Caucasus, Circassia, Daghestan, the Crimea, Roumania
"Around the Black Sea" by William Eleroy Curtis is a travel narrative originally composed of newspaper letters written in the early 20th century. The book offers a detailed exploration of the countries and landscapes surrounding the Black Sea, delving into the cultural, historical, and social dynamics of the region. Curtis engages with diverse groups of peoples, capturing their customs, traditions, and the natural beauty of Asia Minor, the Crimea, and other locales bordering the Black Sea. The opening of the narrative begins with a vivid description of the author's cruise on the Black Sea, highlighting the variety of people onboard, from Turkish soldiers to Armenian merchants. Curtis reflects on the multicultural environment, noting the distinct costumes and lively interactions among passengers representing different backgrounds and religions. He observes the social customs of Muslims aboard, their attitudes towards food and prayers, and describes the picturesque scenery along the coast, setting the stage for a deeper examination of the historical significance and contemporary realities of the regions he visits. The author’s keen observations and engaging storytelling invite readers to experience a vibrant tapestry of life around the Black Sea.
William Wilkinson
An account of the principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia with various political observations relating to them
"An Account of the Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia" by William Wilkinson is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the geographical, political, and economic landscapes of Wallachia and Moldavia, exploring their rich history, governance, and societal structures. The author, having served as the British consul in Bucharest, offers unique insights gained from his time in the region and emphasizes its significance within the broader political context of Europe. The opening of this account begins with a preface, discussing the unique position of Wallachia and Moldavia in Europe, influenced by their historical ties to the Ottoman Empire and neighboring states. Wilkinson outlines his intentions to provide a detailed description of the two provinces, focusing on their geographical layout and historical evolution from ancient Dacian tribes to their contemporary state around the early 19th century. He sets the stage for a thorough exploration of the political and social dynamics in these principalities, hinting at the tensions between local governance and Turkish authority, as well as the vibrant culture and economic potential waiting to be unleashed.
Maude Rea Parkinson
Twenty years in Roumania
"Twenty years in Roumania" by Maude Rea Parkinson is a memoir of travel and social observation written in the early 20th century. Drawing on decades spent teaching and moving in Romanian society, it offers an intimate, often humorous portrait of the country’s people, institutions, and landscape, from the capital’s salons to village greens. Expect first-hand sketches of geography, politics, religion, and custom, framed by the author’s affectionate yet candid outlook. The opening of the memoir sets out the author’s purpose and loyalties, then follows her youthful decision to settle in Bucarest, her arduous journey via Vienna and Hungary, and her bracing first impressions of the city. It quickly widens into a clear, informal guide to the country—its mountains, rivers, railways, and the drama of the Danube—before turning to parliament, raucous elections, and a stiff but brave army shaped by the monarchy. The religious life of the Greek Orthodox majority appears through priests’ rounds, Easter rites, and the legend of Curtea d’Argesh. Bucarest is sketched as a garden-like capital of trams, the Calea Victoriei, splendid churches, and domestic habits like serving “dulceata,” followed by a stark account of land tenure, peasant hardship, and a violent rural rising that drew troops to the countryside and anxiety to the capital, where she notably kept her nerve by going to church. The section then lingers on village life—music, the hora and sârba, embroidered dress, rustic weddings, and evening songs—while noting how townsfolk sometimes exploit peasant naivety. It closes by segueing into a discussion of trade and commerce.
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