Romanian Revolution of 1989 Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids

Romanian Revolution of 1989

Part of the Cold War

Romanian stamp commemorating the Romanian Revolution

Date	December 16-25, 1989
Location	Romania
Result	Revolution succeeded Ceauşescu and wife executed

Belligerents

Socialist Republic of Romania

Securitate and other loyalist forces

Anti-Ceauşescu protesters
Romanian army
Discontented Communist party members

Commanders and leaders

Nicolae Ceauşescu†

Various independent leaders

Casualties and losses

1,104 deaths

The Romanian Revolution of 1989 was a short but intense period of protests and fighting in Romania. It happened in late December 1989. This event aimed to end the rule of Nicolae Ceauşescu, who was the leader of the country's Communist government.

In 1989, many countries in Eastern Europe saw their Communist governments fall. Revolutions in places like Czechoslovakia and Poland were mostly peaceful. However, the revolution in Romania was different. It involved violence and led to many deaths, including Ceauşescu himself.

What Was the Romanian Revolution?
Images for kids
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What Was the Romanian Revolution?

The Romanian Revolution was a major uprising against the Communist government in power. It was a time when people demanded freedom and a new way of life. The events unfolded quickly over about a week.

Why Did the Revolution Happen?

For a long time, Romania was ruled by a very strict Communist leader, Nicolae Ceauşescu. He had been in power for many years. People in Romania faced many hardships under his rule.

There was a lack of basic goods like food and electricity.
People had very little freedom to speak their minds.
The secret police, called the Securitate, watched everyone closely.

By 1989, people were tired of these conditions. They wanted change and more freedom.

How Did the Revolution Start?

The revolution began in the city of Timișoara on December 16, 1989. Protests started when the government tried to remove a popular pastor. People gathered to support him.

Protests Spread Across Romania

The protests quickly grew larger. Soon, they were not just about the pastor. People started protesting against Ceauşescu's entire government. The demonstrations spread to other cities, including the capital, Bucharest.

Thousands of people joined the protests.
They chanted slogans asking for freedom.
They demanded an end to Communist rule.

What Happened During the Revolution?

As the protests grew, the government tried to stop them. The Securitate and other forces loyal to Ceauşescu used violence against the protesters. This led to clashes and fighting in the streets.

The Army Joins the People

A key moment happened when parts of the Romanian army decided to support the protesters. This was a huge turning point. Instead of fighting against their own people, many soldiers joined the revolution. This made it much harder for Ceauşescu to stay in power.

Ceauşescu's Last Speech

On December 21, Ceauşescu gave a speech in Bucharest. He tried to calm the crowds, but it didn't work. The people booed him and demanded his resignation. This was a clear sign that his power was crumbling.

The Fall of Ceauşescu

On December 22, Ceauşescu and his wife tried to escape by helicopter. However, they were captured soon after. They were put on trial by the new revolutionary forces.

The trial was very quick.
They were found guilty of serious crimes.
They were executed on December 25, 1989.

This marked the official end of the Communist regime in Romania.

What Was the Result of the Revolution?

The Romanian Revolution successfully ended Communist rule in the country. It brought about major changes:

Romania became a democratic country.
People gained more freedoms and rights.
The secret police force was disbanded.

However, the revolution was also very costly. Over 1,100 people died during the fighting. It was the only violent overthrow of a Communist government in Eastern Europe during 1989.

Images for kids

A map showing how Communist governments were changing in Eastern Europe in December 1989.
A demonstration taking place in Timișoara, where the revolution began.
A T-55 tank in front of the Opera House during the revolution.
The balcony where Ceaușescu gave his final speech, now taken over by the crowd.
Protesters in Cluj-Napoca on December 21, after security forces had opened fire.
An armored car used by a special anti-terrorist unit in December 1989.
A Romanian soldier giving the victory sign on New Year's Eve 1989, with communist symbols removed from his hat.
Romanian flags with the communist symbol cut out, showing how people rejected the old government.
Buildings in Revolution Square, Bucharest, showing damage from fire and bullets in July 1990.