The additional charges placed upon Wallachia, when the principality was sold every three years, were no less than those required in Moldavia. The same methods were used to collect money, and the same systems of pressure and extortion were applied. The suffering of the people was equal in both provinces.
In fact, the memory of the rebellion of Matthew the Voivode made the situation even worse. Because of his past revolt, the Ottoman authorities felt justified in placing even heavier financial demands upon the country. They used his example as a reason to impose stricter control and higher payments.
The Appointment of Stridia Bei
In the year 1664, a new prince was appointed to Wallachia by order of the Grand Signior. Among the Greeks, he was called Stridia Bei, a name which suggested that he had once gained his fortune by selling oysters and fish. This detail shows that he was not from a noble or royal background, but had risen from a humble trade Bulgaria Tours.
He succeeded the former prince, Gregorasco. Gregorasco had returned home with his army without permission after being defeated by General Susa near Lerva. Fearing the anger of the Prime Vizier for this disobedience, he fled to the lands of the Emperor for safety.
Collective Punishment and Higher Demands
The Ottoman government often punished the people for the actions of their governors, and sometimes punished governors for the faults of the people. In this case, the price of the principality was raised even higher after these events.
Stridia Bei, eager to obtain power at any cost, agreed to pay an enormous sum for the position. According to reliable reports, he paid 800 purses of money, which equaled 400,000 dollars. When interest on borrowed money was added, the total debt became even greater.
A Prince in Debt
Since such a large amount had to be borrowed at high interest, it is easy to imagine the heavy burden placed upon the new prince. He began his rule already deeply in debt. The only way to recover his money was to tax and pressure the people of Wallachia.
One can easily imagine how the people felt when they went out to welcome their new ruler. Instead of joy and hope, there must have been fear and anxiety. They knew that a prince who had paid such a high price for his position would need to recover his losses quickly. This meant heavier taxes, stricter collection, and greater hardship for the country.
Thus, the system of selling offices did not bring stability or justice. Instead, it created rulers burdened by debt and people burdened by oppression.