Capture of Ceaușescus at Târgoviște(1989)
Background
Ceaușescus fled by helicopter Dec 22, were arrested near Găești. The FSN established an Extraordinary Military Tribunal; the trial lasted under one hour. The rush to execute before a public trial became a lasting political controversy.
Campaign: Romanian Revolution of 1989
Forces Engaged
The Battle
The Ceaușescus were captured after a helicopter flight from Bucharest, held at the military base, then summarily tried and executed on Dec 25.
“"I was three feet behind Ceaușescu. He began to sing a fragment of The Internationale." — Dorin Cârlan, Sergeant, firing-squad paratrooper
Casualties & Outcome
2 executed (Nicolae and Elena Ceaușescu); 7 total deaths in wider Târgoviște area
Army units / Revolutionary tribunal achieved victory over Nicolae & Elena Ceaușescu.
The execution was broadcast on television. Fighting continued for several more days in Bucharest as confused Securitate units resisted.
Historical Record
Significance & Legacy
Execution of Ceaușescu — definitive end of communist rule. Most internationally significant moment of the Revolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the Capture of Ceaușescus at Târgoviște?
- The Capture of Ceaușescus at Târgoviște took place in 1989. Dec 22–25, 1989.
- Who won the Capture of Ceaușescus at Târgoviște?
- The Army units / Revolutionary tribunal were victorious against the Nicolae & Elena Ceaușescu.
- What was the significance of the Capture of Ceaușescus at Târgoviște?
- Execution of Ceaușescu — definitive end of communist rule. Most internationally significant moment of the Revolution.