Moldavia, which the Turks called “Eugdan,” first became a tributary state under Sultan Mehmed the Great. At that time, the tribute was small. The province agreed to pay 2,000 golden crowns each year. This payment allowed Moldavia to keep a degree of independence while accepting Ottoman protection.
Later, the ruler of Moldavia, Bogdan the Voivode, feared that his country would become a complete and powerless vassal of the Ottoman Empire. In the year 1485, he decided to resist Ottoman control. To strengthen his position, he formed an alliance with the Kingdom of Poland. Together, they prepared to fight against Sultan Selim II.
Rebellion and Religious Change
During this conflict, a man named John, who was born in Moldavia but had converted to Islam, gained the favor of Sultan Selim. The Sultan appointed him as the new prince of Moldavia. However, once John secured his position, he returned to his former Christian faith Private Tours Balkan.
This act of religious change angered the Ottoman authorities. The Sultan considered it both rebellion and betrayal. In response, the Ottoman Empire, with the support of the neighboring province of Wallachia, launched a new war against Moldavia.
The Fall of Moldavia
The war brought great trouble to the land. In the end, John the Voivode lost his life through treachery. After his death, Moldavia was no longer able to resist Ottoman power. In the year 1574, the province fell completely under Ottoman control and was more directly united to the empire.
From that time onward, Moldavia’s independence was greatly reduced. It remained under Ottoman authority, governed by rulers who depended on the Sultan’s approval.
The Tribute of Moldavia
According to Turkish historical records of that period, the tribute of Moldavia was set at 40,000 zechins, which was equal to about 80,000 dollars in value at that time. This was a large increase compared to the earlier payment of 2,000 crowns.
Over the years, the exact amount of tribute may have changed, and different reports may give different figures. However, what remains certain is that Moldavia became an important source of income for the Ottoman Empire. The payment of tribute was not only a sign of submission but also a heavy financial burden on the province.
Thus, Moldavia’s history shows a gradual loss of freedom. What began as a light tribute under loose protection ended in full control by the Ottoman Empire, with increased taxes and limited independence.