Aurel Cosma in Timisoara, Romania

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Aurel Traian Cosma was a lawyer and a politician who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of Romanians in the Banat region. He served as president of the Romanian National Party from Banat, where he also led the artisan union Banat Romania. As chairman of the delegation to Alba Iulia Banat, Cosma played a key role in shaping the future of the region. Born in September 1867 in the village of Banat Beregsău Mare, Aurel Traian Cosma came from a long line of Romanians who had settled in the Banat region. His ancestors were said to have originated from Moldova and were known for their skills as shepherds. Cosma's father, Damascus Cosmas, was a teacher at Beregsău, while his mother, Maria Panaiot, came from a family with deep roots in Romanian history. Her relatives, the Mocioneştii and Vukovicii, were descended from ancient Macedonian families who had settled in Banat. Aurel Traian Cosma joined the army and pursued a wide range of studies that would serve him well in his future endeavors. He eventually moved to Romanian Banat, where he quickly established himself as a leader. Despite initial criticism from former colleagues, Cosma was able to strengthen the party organization and expand its territory. In 1922, the Liberals came to power, and Cosma was appointed Minister of Public Works. In this role, he oversaw significant reforms in personnel reorganization, railway transport, mail services, trade, and industry. Along with other Liberal MPs, Cosma played a key part in completing the Constitution in 1923. Cosma held the portfolio of Minister for nearly two years before running for deputy mandate in Timisoara. His charismatic personality earned him broad support from the local population, and he emerged as an undisputed leader among Liberals at that time. However, Cosma's health began to decline in 1930, forcing him to retire as head of the liberal organization. He passed away on July 31, 1931, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations to come. His funeral in Timisoara was attended by thousands of people who had been touched by his life and work. Before his death, Cosma penned a poignant testament addressed to his grandson Aurel Cosma Jr., in which he reflected on the challenges he had faced throughout his life. Despite his many achievements, Cosma remained humble and true to himself until the end, famously saying, "I was born poor and die poor."