Fejedelemség

Fejedelemség is a Hungarian term that translates to principality or domain. It refers to a territory ruled by a prince (fejedelem). Historically, a fejedelemség was a form of state organization, often existing in Central and Eastern Europe, where a prince held sovereign or semi-sovereign power. The specific nature and extent of a fejedelemség varied depending on the historical period and the political context.

These entities could be independent states, or they could be subordinate to a larger kingdom or empire, paying tribute or owing allegiance. The title of prince was typically hereditary, passed down within a ruling family. Notable examples of historical fejedelemségek include the Principality of Transylvania, which existed for centuries as an autonomous entity within the Kingdom of Hungary and later as a vassal of the Ottoman Empire, and the Principality of Moldavia and Wallachia, which evolved into modern Romania. The term emphasizes the rule of a prince as the central authority, distinguishing it from kingdoms ruled by kings or duchies ruled by dukes. The concept of a fejedelemség is important for understanding the complex political landscape of Eastern Europe prior to the rise of modern nation-states.