ABSTRACT
From the mid-18th century on (simultaneous with the Ottoman decline and the principalities' new economic role) western powers and Russia began to show a greater interest. Russia regarded them (especially Modavia) as its protectorates; the western powers quietly reacted to this claim and set up its own consulates. From 1740 until 1749, new reforms were introduced and modem legislative innovations implemented. The boyars were excited while the French revolution ran its course, but its democratic side was not appreciated. In 1822, local sovereignty was accepted after a popular revolt in 1821.
