Florin Choaba Gypsy Baron and "King of all Gypsies" Date of Birth: 17.11.1954 Country: Romania

1. Biography of Florin Cioaba
2. Education and Early Life
3. The Rise of the Gypsy Baron
4. Controversial Marriage
5. Advocate for Change
6. International Recognition and Wealth
7. Death and Legacy

Biography of Florin Cioaba

Florin Cioaba, also known as the Gypsy Baron and the "King of all Gypsies," was born on November 17, 1954, in a influential Gypsy baron family in Romania. His father, Ion Cioaba, was deported to Transnistria during World War II and later resettled in southern Romania. Florin was the only son in the family.

Education and Early Life

Florin Cioaba received his education at the Bethany Bible Seminary in Sibiu. After completing his studies, he moved to Turnisor, where he began preaching in the local church. In 1968, at the age of 14, Florin married a girl named Marika in accordance with Gypsy traditions.

The Rise of the Gypsy Baron

The Gypsy Baron title first gained attention in 1997 after the death of his influential father, Ion Cioaba. Upon his father's death, Florin inherited all his wealth and titles, proclaiming himself the "King of all Gypsies." This declaration caused controversy and sparked discussions about his legitimacy as a leader within the Roma community.

Controversial Marriage

In 2003, Florin Cioaba made headlines across Europe when he arranged the marriage of his 12-year-old daughter. The groom was a 15-year-old boy, which violated Romanian laws that require a minimum age of 16 for marriage. This event drew criticism from the government and several European nations. Defending his actions, Florin appeared on Romanian television, stating that he had the right to decide when to marry off his daughter, citing Gypsy laws that do not prohibit early marriages.

Advocate for Change

Despite his initial endorsement of early marriages, Florin Cioaba later realized his mistake and began campaigning against this Gypsy tradition. He also worked towards educating Roma children and encouraged their enrollment in schools. In 2011, he opened Stabor, the first Gypsy court, in Sibiu. His eldest son, Dorin, a law graduate, became the chief judge. The court exclusively handled conflicts within the Roma community and operated in accordance with Romanian laws.

International Recognition and Wealth

Florin Cioaba was elected as the President of the International Romani Union during the 2013 international symposium in Sibiu. As the "King of all Gypsies," he was considered the wealthiest person in Romania, with an estimated annual income of 80 million euros. His Koldash clan, consisting of over 300 families, generated an annual profit of 300 million euros.

Death and Legacy

Florin Cioaba tragically passed away on August 18, 2013, due to a heart attack while on vacation with his family in Antalya. Throughout his life, he had friendships with various celebrities and politicians, including Romanian President Traian Băsescu. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Florin Cioaba left a mark as a prominent figure in the Roma community, advocating for change and challenging traditional Gypsy customs.