Székelyfolk

The Székelyfolk, or Székely people, are a historical ethnic group primarily associated with the Székely Land, a region in the northeastern part of Romania, within the historical Transylvania. They are part of the broader Hungarian ethnic group and have maintained distinct cultural, linguistic, and administrative traditions for centuries.

The Székely people trace their origins to the 10th century, when they were invited by the Hungarian king Stephen I to settle in Transylvania as frontier guards against external threats. Over time, they developed a unique political and social structure known as the Székely Law (*Székely törvények*), which governed their communities independently. This system included a decentralized administration with elected leaders, known as *székely főkapitány* (Székely captains), who managed local affairs.

The Székelyfolk have preserved their Hungarian language and cultural identity, including traditional clothing, music, and folk crafts. Their distinctive attire, such as the *székely kalap* (Székely hat), a wide-brimmed hat, and embroidered garments, reflects their historical and regional heritage. Folk music and dance, often performed at festivals like the *Székely Summer*, remain important cultural expressions.

The Székely Land, encompassing parts of the counties of Harghita, Covasna, and Mureș in Romania, is recognized as a region with a strong sense of autonomy. While the Székely people have historically been Romanians in terms of state citizenship, they have maintained a distinct Hungarian cultural and administrative identity. Today, they continue to celebrate their traditions while adapting to modern societal changes.