An account of the principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia with various political observations relating to them

"An Account of the Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia" by William Wilkinson is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the geographical, political, and economic landscapes of Wallachia and Moldavia, exploring their rich history, governance, and societal structures. The author, having served as the British consul in Bucharest, offers unique insights gained from his time in the region and emphasizes its significance within the broader political context of Europe. The opening of this account begins with a preface, discussing the unique position of Wallachia and Moldavia in Europe, influenced by their historical ties to the Ottoman Empire and neighboring states. Wilkinson outlines his intentions to provide a detailed description of the two provinces, focusing on their geographical layout and historical evolution from ancient Dacian tribes to their contemporary state around the early 19th century. He sets the stage for a thorough exploration of the political and social dynamics in these principalities, hinting at the tensions between local governance and Turkish authority, as well as the vibrant culture and economic potential waiting to be unleashed. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Wilkinson was an Englishman appointed as the Levant Company's representative in Bucharest in October 1813; His agency was terminated in 1816. Despite support for his candidacy from Prince Ioan Caragea, the then hospodar of Wallachia, Wilkinson failed in his attempt to secure appointment as British Consul in Bucharest in 1818. He wrote a book An Account of the Principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia: With Various Political Observations Relating to Them (1820). It was one of the books on which Bram Stoker took notes before writing Dracula, and the Romanian name Dracula was taken from it.