Death of the Father: Ceausescu & Romania

Ceausescu & Romania

Form of Authority

Romanian socialism (1944-1989) proclaimed the transformative power of the state under the all-knowing leader. Mass rallies and visits by Nicolae Ceausescu to the provinces reinforced this policy as did the international recognition won by taking advantage of Cold War antagonisms.

Death & Transition

After being held captive for three days, Nicolae and Elena Ceausescu were condemned by a military tribunal whose authority they rejected. Their hasty and particularly gruesome execution fueled popular views that they were silenced to conceal the misdeeds of others.

Consequences

Ambiguity surrounds the "events" of December 1989. Was it a genuine revolution or a conspiracy by Ceausescu's lieutenants to prevent loss of their power? The end of socialism introduced economic uncertainty, the flowering of patronage, and constant political intrigue.