Alexandru Averescu was a Romanian marshal and politician who served as Prime Minister three times. He first rose to prominence by helping repress a peasant revolt in 1907 with violence. During World War I, he helped defend Moldavia from 1916-1917, gaining popularity. In 1920-1921, he founded the successful People's Party and brought it to power with backing from King Ferdinand I. His terms as Prime Minister saw land reform legislation passed and communist activities repressed, but also a controversial treaty with Fascist Italy. He helped bring Prince Carol back to the throne in 1930 before tensions developed and they reconciled shortly before Averescu's death.