Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad III or Vlad Dracula, was a 15th-century ruler of Wallachia, a region in present-day Romania. He is famous for his brutal methods of punishing enemies, particularly his preferred method of impalement. His reign was marked by a desire to consolidate power and defend his territory against the Ottoman Empire. Vlad's reputation for cruelty has made him a historical figure of intrigue and horror. He is often associated with the fictional character Count Dracula, created by Bram Stoker in his 1897 novel. Despite his notorious reputation, Vlad is also seen as a national hero in Romania for his efforts to protect his land from invaders.