The elite in Bessarabia were drawn to the idea of becoming part of the Russian nobility, which included privileges associated with this social status. In addition to the material benefits that the status of a Russian noble could generate, attention should also be paid to the symbolic attributes. Belonging to a supposedly superior culture to the local one led to changes in behaviour, attitudes, and perceptions. As such, those who aspired to the status of a Russian noble attempted to adopt the appropriate customs regarding lifestyle. The struggle for material privileges led to an increased degree of dependence on imperial authorities, while also affecting cohesion within the local noble community.