The Night Attack at Târgoviște: Vlad the Impaler’s Attempt to Assassinate Mehmed II

Historical Context

In the mid-15th century, the Ottoman Empire, under the rule of Sultan Mehmed II, was expanding its influence into Eastern Europe. Vlad III, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad Dracula, was the Voivode (Prince) of Wallachia, a region strategically located between the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary. Vlad’s rule was marked by his fierce resistance against Ottoman encroachment and his notorious reputation for impaling his enemies.

Prelude to the Night Attack

Tensions between Vlad and Mehmed II escalated due to Vlad’s refusal to pay tribute to the Ottomans and his aggressive raids into Ottoman territories. In response, Mehmed II launched a campaign to subdue Wallachia and replace Vlad with a more compliant ruler. By the summer of 1462, Mehmed II had amassed a large army and advanced into Wallachia, aiming to capture Vlad and secure the region.

The Night Attack: June 17, 1462

On the night of June 17, 1462, Vlad the Impaler orchestrated a daring assault on the Ottoman camp near Târgoviște, the capital of Wallachia. This event, known as the Night Attack, was a bold attempt to assassinate Sultan Mehmed II and disrupt the Ottoman forces.

The Attack

• Strategy: Vlad employed guerrilla tactics, utilizing his knowledge of the local terrain to his advantage. His forces, numbering between 10,000 and 30,000, launched a surprise night raid on the Ottoman camp, which was significantly larger, with estimates of up to 150,000 troops.
• Execution: Vlad’s men infiltrated the camp under the cover of darkness, aiming to create chaos and confusion. They targeted the Sultan’s tent, intending to kill Mehmed II and demoralize the Ottoman army.
• Outcome: Although the attack caused significant disruption and inflicted heavy casualties on the Ottomans, Vlad’s primary objective of assassinating Mehmed II was not achieved. The Sultan survived the assault, and the Ottomans eventually regrouped.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

• Retreat and Resistance: Despite the failure to kill Mehmed II, Vlad’s audacious attack demonstrated his resolve and ability to resist Ottoman advances. However, facing overwhelming odds, Vlad eventually retreated into the Carpathian Mountains.
• Political Consequences: The Night Attack did not halt the Ottoman campaign. Mehmed II continued his advance, and Vlad was forced to seek refuge in Hungary. He was later imprisoned by the Hungarian king, Matthias Corvinus, due to political machinations.
• Legacy: The Night Attack at Târgoviște solidified Vlad the Impaler’s reputation as a cunning and ruthless leader. His resistance against the Ottomans became legendary, contributing to his enduring legacy in Romanian folklore and history.

The Night Attack at Târgoviște remains a significant episode in the history of Eastern European resistance against Ottoman expansion, illustrating the complex dynamics of power, warfare, and diplomacy in the region during the 15th century.