Radu cel Frumos

historical figure

Radu cel Frumos, also known as Radu the Handsome, was the younger brother of Vlad Dracul and a key figure in the history of Wallachia during the 15th century. Unlike his brother, who gained notoriety for his cruelty, Radu was known for his charm and political maneuvering, eventually becoming a favorite of the Ottoman sultan. His life was marked by a complicated relationship with Vlad, as Radu aligned himself with the Ottomans, often opposing Vlad's reign. Radu's influence in the Ottoman court allowed him to play a pivotal role in the power dynamics of the region, and he briefly ruled Wallachia in the late 1460s. His legacy, though overshadowed by that of his brother, reflects the complexities of loyalty and rivalry in a time of shifting allegiances.