INTELIGENȚIA ROMÂNĂ DIN TRANSILVANIA ȘI BANAT. ROLUL ACESTEIA ÎN SPRIJINIREA COMUNITĂȚILOR LOCALE (1880–1918)
THE ROMANIAN INTELLIGENTSIA FROM TRANSYLVANIA AND BANAT. ITS ROLE IN SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES (1880–1918)

Summary/Abstract: The article analyses the essential role of the Romanian intelligentsia in affirming the cultural and national identity in Transylvania and Banat. The authors define the intelligentsia as a social category made up of educated individuals actively involved in the cultural, moral, and political life of society, capable of mobilizing resources and influencing public opinion. The symbolic relationship between the people and the intelligentsia is emphasized – the people being the “body,” and the intelligentsia the “soul” – and it is shown that although the number of intellectuals had increased by the end of the 19th century, their moral authority over the masses had diminished due to its social isolation and the absence of a middle class. The solution proposed by the press of the time was the constant and direct rapprochement of the elite with the people through cultural, educational, and economic activities, thereby strengthening community solidarity and trust. The Romanian press in Transylvania played a decisive role in asserting national identity by informing the public, promoting Romanian culture, and mobilizing communities against Magyarization policies through articles, memoranda, and cultural events. Examples include protests against the 1879 education law, the involvement of bishops and the local elite in defending the Romanian language, as well as financial and moral support for cultural projects such as the Society for the Romanian Theatre Fund and the activities of ASTRA. The Romanian intelligentsia also became directly involved in the life of local communities by organizing cultural and philanthropic events, building and maintaining churches, promoting Romanian theatre and music, educating the public, and supporting national institutions. Their actions were characterized by perseverance, solidarity, and professionalism, despite the financial, social, and political difficulties imposed by the Austro-Hungarian authorities. The initiatives of the Romanian intelligentsia in Transylvania were vital for consolidating national identity, promoting Romanian culture, and creating a durable cultural and educational infrastructure, proving that the intelligentsia acted as a cultural engine and a unifying force within the community.

• Details
• Contents