What rivers define the boundaries of Bessarabia?
The Dniester river flows along the eastern edge of Bessarabia, while the Prut river marks its western boundary. This historical region covers an area mostly composed of hilly plains and flat steppes.
Questions about Bessarabia
Short answers, pulled from the story.
How did the name Bessarabia originate according to traditional explanations?
Traditional explanations suggest the name Bessarabia derives from the Wallachian Basarab dynasty who allegedly ruled the southern part of the area in the 14th century. The name Basarab likely comes from Cuman or Pecheneg Turkic origins meaning father ruler.
When was the Treaty of Bucharest signed regarding Bessarabia?
The Treaty of Bucharest signed the 28th of May 1812 concluded the Russo-Turkish War of 1806-1812. The Ottoman Empire ceded land between the Pruth and the Dniester to the Russian Empire that entire region became known as Bessarabia.
Why were Romanian language rights restricted in Bessarabia after 1834?
By 1834 Romanian was banned from schools and government facilities despite 80% of the population speaking it. Those who protested could be sent to Siberia.
What happened to Bessarabia following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact on the 23rd of August 1939?
The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed the 23rd of August 1939 recognized Bessarabia as belonging to Soviet sphere of interest under secret Annex Article 4. On the 26th of June 1940 USSR issued 24-hour ultimatum demanding immediate cession of Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina under threat of war.
When did Republic Moldova declare independence with unchanged boundaries from Moldavian SSR?
Republic independent the 27th of August 1991 taking unchanged boundaries Moldavian SSR. Short war early 1990s resulted Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic proclaimed Transnistria extending authority municipality Bender right bank Dniester river.