Demir Dragnev at 90: A life devoted to history and education
Academician Demir Dragnev continues to research, write, and help train new generations of historians. To mark his ninetieth birthday, colleagues, disciples, and family gathered to pay tribute to one of the most important researchers of the medieval and modern history of the Romanian lands.
He built his career during turbulent historical times, authored hundreds of scholarly works, and trained generations of historians.
"I am currently working on several projects: a collection of documents from the Russo-Turkish War of 1806–1812, and a book about historians of the Soviet era—covering biographies and institutionalization—together with my colleague Ion Xenofontov," notes Academician Demir Dragnev.
Among the renowned historian's protégés are members of his own family—his son Emil and his granddaughter Maria—both of whom are historians.
"What I have adopted is the attitude toward my research subjects, the research methodology, and a consistently critical eye regarding the sources historians use. He remains a model of commitment, responsibility, and clear-sightedness," recounts Emil Dragnev, Head of the Department of the History of Romanians at USM.
"He is an example and a source of pride; with each passing year, I realize just how lucky I was with my family—not just my grandfather, but all of them; I am proud of them all. We stick together, work in related fields, and share a very strong bond," says historian Maria Dragnev.
A passion for history also draws young researchers to Academician Dragnev. Among them is Antonio Kubeak, a student at the University of Warsaw.
"He is 90 years old now and remains very active to this day, writing highly interesting and useful articles; that is why I am so impressed by him," notes Antonio Kubeak.
Academician Demir Dragnev is the author of hundreds of scholarly and educational works, dozens of monographs and textbooks, as well as articles published in international specialized journals.
"He knew how to navigate the treacherous waters of cultural, scientific, and political life, and today he stands as one of the scholars of whom the historical discipline—and the scientific community of the Republic of Moldova—can be truly proud," says Gheorghe Cojocaru, Director of the Institute of History.
At the age of 90, Academician Demir Dragnev enjoys the company of his family and colleagues, as well as the scientific projects on which he works with the same rigor.
