Most Romanian national heroes lived while the Ottoman Empire dominated the Balkans. History bears witness to their doings, yet certain figures have become almost mythical thanks to the powerful impact of the nationalistic literature. / Mihai Eminescu, the Romanian national poet par excellence, whose writings were merely tolerated by the Communists, exerted a strong influence despite his passionate involvement and he managed to create historical confusion lasting for generations. After 1989, Romanian history books changed. In my thesis, I seek to modify the myth of invincible Romanian heroes and to understand the reason why Romanian principalities enjoyed a special treatment during the Ottoman period. / The Romanian principalities served as buffer states, stopping, halting the Ottoman advancement to the north of the Danube on many occasions. The double game often used by Romanian leaders helped Valaquia and Moldavia retain their special status. Also, the treaties of vassalage signed with the Romanians and the power of the Orthodox Church have prevented the Ottomans from imposing their own laws and customs. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

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