Bulgaria’s Rich and Varied History
Bulgaria’s Historical Background
Bulgaria has a rich and varied history and is situated at the meeting point of Europe and Asia. Bulgaria has been influenced by numerous civilizations and powers from its ancient beginnings with the Thracians to the present, creating a legacy that is evident in its people, language, and customs. This article provides a succinct yet thorough summary of Bulgaria’s history, highlighting significant events that have shaped the country.
From 4000 BCE to the First Century AD: The Thracian Period
The Thracians, an ancient people who lived in the area starting about 4000 BCE, are where Bulgaria’s history starts. Known for their military culture and metalworking prowess, the Thracians created some of the most exquisite gold and silver items in antiquity. They were renowned for their independence and resisted foreign rule for generations. They worshipped deities like Dionysus. They lacked political cohesion and were ultimately assimilated into the Roman Empire in spite of their cultural accomplishments.
Influence and Conquest by the Romans (1st–5th Century AD)
Thrace was subjugated by the Roman Empire in AD 46 and became part of the province of Moesia. Some of the roads, cities, and defenses that the Romans introduced to the area—like those at Plovdiv—can still be seen today. Latin was adopted as the official language, and everyday life was influenced by Roman traditions. By the fifth century, however, Roman dominance over the Balkans had been undermined by the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the emergence of barbarian invasions.
The Slavs and Bulgars’ Arrival (6th Century)
Slavic tribes started moving into the Balkans by the sixth century, and the First Bulgarian Empire was founded in 681 AD by the Bulgars, a Turkic semi-nomadic tribe under the leadership of Khan Asparuh. The Slavic and Bulgar populations united at this time, creating a new Bulgarian state and laying the groundwork for Bulgaria’s identity.
681–1018: The First Bulgarian Empire
With its quick territorial expansion, the First Bulgarian Empire rose to prominence as a major regional force in the Balkans. In 864, under Boris I, Christianity was proclaimed the official state religion. In addition to strengthening Bulgaria’s cultural identity, this strengthened its ties to the Byzantine Empire and the larger Christian world. During this time, Saints Cyril and Methodius developed the Cyrillic script, which was crucial because it made it possible for Orthodox Christianity and literacy to expand throughout Bulgaria and other Slavic countries.
Bulgarian Culture’s Golden Age (9th–10th Century)
The “Golden Age” of Bulgaria began with Tsar Simeon the Great. With developments in literature, art, and architecture, the empire peaked. Bulgaria was one of the most powerful states in Europe, and its capital, Preslav, developed into a center of study and culture. But following Simeon’s rule, the empire started to wane, and the Byzantine Empire eventually overthrew it in 1018.
1018–1185: The Byzantine Rule
Bulgaria continued to be ruled by the Byzantines for about 200 years. Despite foreign control, Bulgarian identity and Orthodox Christianity were maintained during this time. During this period, there were a number of uprisings, but none of them were successful until 1185, when the brothers Asen and Peter staged an uprising that led to the creation of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
The Bulgarian Empire, Second (1185–1396)
Bulgaria saw a return to power and riches with the founding of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Tarnovo, its new city, gained notoriety as a “Second Constantinople” due to its wealth and culture. But the empire was undermined by internal strife and external dangers, and by 1396, Bulgaria was ruled by the Ottomans.
1396–1878: The Ottoman Conquest and Domination
The Ottoman Empire ruled Bulgaria for almost five hundred years. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church and folklore helped to preserve Bulgarian culture, religion, and national identity despite their suppression. Heavy taxation and sometimes violent repression caused the populace considerable suffering, but throughout the ages, there were persistent attempts to rebel.
The National Rebirth and Independence Movement (18th–19th Century)
A developing sense of national awareness fueled a Bulgarian National Revival in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hristo Botev, Vasil Levski, and other individuals came to represent the fight for independence. Despite being violently put down, the April Uprising of 1876 brought the Bulgarian cause to the attention of the world.
Bulgaria’s Liberation (1878)
The liberation of Bulgaria was the result of the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878. The Treaty of San Stefano gave Bulgaria a lot of territory at first, but the new Bulgarian state was made smaller by the Treaty of Berlin in 1878. But with Bulgaria’s independence, Ottoman domination came to an end and modern Bulgarian history began.
Bulgaria in the 1900s: Conflicts and Difficulties
Bulgaria engaged in the Balkan Wars (1912–1913) in an attempt to increase its territory at the beginning of the 20th century. Despite its initial success, Bulgaria suffered heavy losses and gave up territory as a result of its alliance with Germany during World Wars I and II. Following World War II, Bulgaria was influenced by the Soviet Union, which resulted in the installation of a communist regime in 1946.
The Period of Communism (1946–1989)
Bulgaria saw substantial industry while under communist control, but there was also a great deal of political repression. From 1954 to 1989, Todor Zhivkov led Bulgaria and had close relations with the Soviet Union. Strict government control and rather stable economic conditions characterized the era. After widespread demonstrations and the breaching of the Berlin Wall, the communist government fell in 1989.
Democracy and EU Integration in Post-Communist Bulgaria (1990–present)
Bulgaria made the transition to a democratic system and a market economy when communism fell. The nation achieved progress in political and economic reforms despite early setbacks, entering the European Union in 2007 and NATO in 2004. Despite its current struggles, Bulgaria is still a major force in the Balkans thanks to its thriving economy and rich cultural legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When was Bulgaria founded?
Bulgaria was officially founded in 681 AD with the establishment of the First Bulgarian Empire under Khan Asparuh.
What was the Golden Age of Bulgaria?
The Golden Age occurred during the reign of Tsar Simeon the Great (9th–10th century), marked by advancements in literature, culture, and political power.
How long was Bulgaria under Ottoman rule?
Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule for nearly 500 years, from 1396 to 1878.
When did Bulgaria become independent?
Bulgaria gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1878 following the Russo-Turkish War.
When did Bulgaria join the European Union?
Bulgaria became a member of the European Union in 2007.
