The history of every nation holds moments of triumph, celebration, despair, and pivotal turning points. For Romanians, their story began nearly 1,900 years ago, immortalized in the intricate carvings of Trajan's Column in Rome, which commemorates the Dacian Wars. This enduring monument serves as a testament to Romania's Latin heritage, a legacy that continues to shape its identity.

A Month of Triumph

December holds profound meaning for Romanians. It marks the culmination of a centuries-long aspiration for unity, achieved on December 1, 1918, when the modern Romanian state reached its natural borders, uniting all historical provinces inhabited by Romanians. This date became the foundation of Romania’s National Day, celebrated as a symbol of national unity and pride.

The year 1918 was transformative for Europe. It marked the end of World War I, the collapse of four empires, and the formation of 12 new independent states, with 15 others completing their national unifications. Inspired by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson’s principle of self-determination, as articulated on February 11, 1918, Romanians began to realize their dreams of unity. Bessarabia, a part of the medieval Moldavian principality annexed by the Russian Empire in 1812, declared its union with the Kingdom of Romania on March 27, 1918. Bukovina, annexed by the Habsburg Empire in 1774, followed suit on November 28, 1918. Finally, on December 1, 1918, Romanians from Transylvania, the majority population in the region, voted for unification with Romania.

This unification was met with overwhelming support from various ethnic groups, including the Transylvanian Saxons and Szeklers. Prime Minister Ion I. C. Brătianu’s words at the time, “We have been waiting for you for 1,000 years and you have come so that we will never be separated again,” reflect the deep significance of this union.

A Time of Despair and Revolution

December has also brought moments of despair. On December 30, 1947, King Michael was forced to abdicate, and Romania was plunged into 42 years of Communist rule. Yet, December also marks a pivotal turning point: the anti-Communist revolution of December 22, 1989, which restored democracy. This revolution paved the way for Romania’s integration into European and transatlantic structures. Romania joined the Council of Europe in 1993, NATO in 2004, and the European Union on January 1, 2007, following its accession negotiations in December 2004.

Historical Reflections and Sacrifices

Romania’s National Day commemorates a long struggle for national unity, from the union of the three Romanian principalities under Michael the Brave in 1600, to the 1848 Revolution led by figures like Nicolae Bălcescu and Avram Iancu, to the Union of Romanian Principalities in 1859, and the War of Independence in 1877. Romania’s sacrifices in both World Wars, particularly the 794,562 soldiers lost in World War II, underscore the cost of protecting national sovereignty and ideals. The December 1989 Revolution further exemplifies the sacrifices made for democracy and freedom.

A Time for Politics and Cooperation

Every four to five years, December becomes a politically significant month in Romania due to parliamentary and presidential elections. In 2024, elections for Parliament fall on December 1, with the presidential runoff scheduled for December 8. The newly elected president will take office on December 22, marking the anniversary of the 1989 revolution.

December also underscores Romania’s commitment to international cooperation. From its membership in the United Nations on December 14, 1955, to its role in adopting significant UN conventions and treaties like the 2015 Paris Agreement, Romania has been an active participant in promoting global stability, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

As the month of Christmas, December carries deep cultural and spiritual importance. Romania’s unaltered ancient traditions, rooted in its conversion to Christianity by St. Andrew the Apostle 19 centuries ago, remain a source of pride and identity.

A Vision for the Future

As historian and philosopher Yuval Noah Harari suggests, balancing patriotism with global cooperation is essential in the 21st century. Romania exemplifies this principle, contributing to EU and NATO efforts while fostering strong bilateral relations, particularly with the United States. Romania’s foreign policy emphasizes stability, respect for international law, and democratic values—prioritizing the power of ideas over material strength.

Romania, as the sixth largest EU member state and a significant contributor to NATO, continues to inspire trust and prosperity. As Henry Kissinger aptly said, “No foreign policy—no matter how ingenious—has any chance of success if it is born in the minds of a few and carried in the hearts of none.” Romania’s enduring commitment to these values ensures its role as a respected partner on the global stage.