Bărbat was the brother and successor of voivode Litovoi whose territory had comprised northern Oltenia (Romania).
War with Hungary
In 1277 Litovoi renounced fealty to king Ladislaus IV of Hungary (1272–1290) when the king claimed lands for the crown, but Litovoi refused to pay tribute for them. where he was forced not only to pay ransom but also to recognize Hungarian rule.