Union Day/Small Union

**Union Day/Small Union in Romania** Union Day, also known as the **Small Union** (*Mica Unire*), is a national holiday in Romania celebrated on **January 24**. It commemorates the unification of the Romanian principalities of **Wallachia** and **Moldavia** under **Alexandru Ioan Cuza** in **1859**. This event marked a significant step toward the formation of modern Romania and is considered a precursor to the **Great Union** of 1918, when Transylvania, Banat, Crișana, and Maramureș also joined the Romanian Kingdom. The Small Union was achieved through the election of Alexandru Ioan Cuza as the ruling prince of both principalities, effectively uniting them under a single administration. This unification laid the groundwork for political, economic, and cultural reforms, including the modernization of the state and the abolition of feudalism. On Union Day, Romanians celebrate their national identity and unity through various events, including ceremonies, cultural programs, and educational activities. It is a day to reflect on the country's history and the importance of solidarity in achieving national goals. The holiday is particularly significant in cities like **Iași** and **Bucharest**, where key historical events of the unification took place.