Matei Basarab (r. 1632-54) becomes the last…

Matei Basarab (r. 1632-54) becomes the last of Walachia's predominant family to take the throne; two years later, Vasile Lupu (1634-53), a man of Albanian descent, becomes prince of Moldavia.

The jealousies and ambitions of Matei and Vasile sap the strength of both principalities at a time when the Porte's power begins to wane.

Coveting the richer Walachian throne, Vasile attacks Matei, but the latter's forces rout the Moldavians, and a group of Moldavian boyars ousts Vasile.

Both Matei and Vasile are enlightened rulers, who provide liberal endowments to religion and the arts, establish  printing presses, and publish religious books and legal codes.