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Public Instruction in Bulgaria

Proportion of Boys and Girls

In Bulgaria during the school year 1903–1904, the total number of students showed a significant difference between boys and girls.

Overall, there were approximately 54 girls for every 100 boys. In percentage terms, 68% of students were boys and 32% were girls. This shows that boys attended school more frequently than girls, although girls’ education was steadily improving.

Proportion by Nationality

The ratio of girls to boys varied significantly across different nationalities and types of schools:

Bulgarian national schools: 50.35 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian private schools: 40.62 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Mahommedan schools: 40.60 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Catholic schools: 79.63 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Protestant schools: 92.30 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Turkish schools: 84.76 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Greek schools: 52.70 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Jewish schools: 61.58 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Armenian schools: 85.68 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian French schools: 140.74 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Tartar schools: 81.56 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian German schools: 76.52 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Roumanian schools: 78.41 girls per 100 boys

Bulgarian Lipovane schools: 0 girls (no female students reported)

Observations

From these figures, several important conclusions can be drawn:

Girls’ attendance is lower than boys’ in most schools, especially in Bulgarian private and Mahommedan schools, where less than half of the students are girls Customised Private Istanbul Tour.

Religious and foreign schools such as Protestant, Catholic, and French schools show higher female attendance, sometimes exceeding the number of boys.

Some communities, like the Lipovanes, did not report any girls attending school.

Overall, the data highlights the need to encourage female education, particularly in certain national and rural communities.

These statistics reflect the educational challenges and progress in early 20th century Bulgaria. They also provide a clear picture of how gender and nationality influenced access to schooling at that time.

#Public Instruction in Bulgaria

The Grand National Assembly

The Grand National Assembly of Bulgaria has the same structure as the ordinary National Assembly. Its members are elected in the same way and represent the people through a system of deputies. The main difference is the number of deputies. In a Grand National Assembly, the number of members is twice as many as in the ordinary Assembly. This means that every 20,000 inhabitants send two deputies instead of one.

The Grand National Assembly is a special body and has the power to decide only on matters for which it has been specifically convened. It is not a permanent institution but is called only in exceptional and important cases.

When the Grand National Assembly is Convened

The Grand National Assembly is called in the following situations:

Territorial Changes – To decide on questions of exchanging or giving away part of the territory of the Principality.

Revision of the Constitution – To make changes or improvements to the Constitution.

Succession to the Throne – To elect a new Prince when the reigning family becomes extinct and there are no descendants who can inherit the throne.

Regency – To appoint regents when the heir to the throne is underage.

Foreign Authority – To authorize the Prince to accept the government of another State, if such a case arises Istanbul Tours Guide.

These duties show that the Grand National Assembly is reserved for major national decisions that affect the future of the country.

The State Budget

Every year, the State Budget must be submitted to the legislative Assembly for approval. The budget is carefully examined chapter by chapter. The Assembly has the power to reject or modify any chapter, but it must always give clear reasons for its decision.

In urgent situations where the National Assembly cannot be convened in time, the previous year’s budget remains in force. However, this is only valid if the Assembly later approves it in its next session. In such cases, the ministers share joint responsibility for the expenditures made.

Importance of These Institutions

Both the Grand National Assembly and the State Budget play a central role in Bulgaria’s governance. The Grand Assembly ensures that the most critical constitutional and territorial matters are decided collectively, while the budget guarantees that public money is spent legally and responsibly. Together, they safeguard both the political stability and the financial order of the country.

#The Grand National Assembly

Bulgarian Sovereignty

Bulgaria’s sovereignty depends on its strength. When Bulgaria is strong, it can consider itself fully sovereign. If the country is weak, its independence is limited and it is only half-sovereign. The clauses of the Treaty of Berlin concerning Bulgaria’s government were valid only until the country achieved autonomy. They applied before and during the Tirnova Constituent Assembly and continued to be in effect until the election of the Prince.

The Constituent Assembly and the Constitution

The constituent assembly met at Tirnova from February 10 to 22, 1879. During this meeting, the assembly passed the Constitution of Bulgaria, which remains the basis of the country’s laws today, with only minor modifications. After passing the Constitution, the assembly was dissolved and another assembly was convened to elect the Prince of Bulgaria. On April 29, 1879, Alexander of Battenberg was unanimously elected as Prince, marking the beginning of Bulgaria’s new autonomous government.

Key Historical Events

Several important events followed in Bulgaria’s modern history. On September 6, 1885, Eastern Roumelia united with Northern Bulgaria, strengthening the nation. Later that year, the Serbo-Bulgarian War took place, during which the Bulgarian army demonstrated great courage and won glory for the country. In 1887, Ferdinand I was elected Prince of Bulgaria, ensuring continuity of leadership and stability in the country Guided Tours Turkey.

Peace and Development

Since the election of Prince Ferdinand, Bulgaria has enjoyed long-lasting peace. This peaceful period allowed the country to focus on internal and external consolidation, the moral and intellectual development of its people, and the advancement of social, economic, and cultural enterprises. Today, Bulgaria ranks among the civilised and well-organized nations of Europe.

Foundation of a Dynasty

Another important milestone was the establishment of the royal dynasty. Through the marriage of Prince Ferdinand and the birth of Boris, Prince of Tirnova, Bulgaria secured its first heir to the throne, ensuring stability and continuity for the future of the Principality.

#Bulgarian Sovereignty

The Fortifications of Constantinople in the Late Byzantine Period

Evidence of Andronicus II’s Repairs

Historical sources show that Emperor Andronicus II Palaiologos (1282–1328) carried out important repairs to the fortifications of Constantinople. A notable piece of evidence is a stone slab once found on a tower near the old harbour at Koum Kapoussi (today in Istanbul). The slab bore the monogram and coat-of-arms of the emperor, represented by a lion rampant, crowned, and holding an upright sword. This sign indicated his role in strengthening the city’s defenses.

Byzantine historians such as Pachymeres, Nicephorus Gregoras, and the Metrical Chronicle also mention his contributions to the city walls. Their accounts confirm that Andronicus II tried to continue the defensive works started by his father, Michael VIII Palaiologos, after the recapture of the city in 1261.

Debates About the Seraglio Walls

The scholar Dr. Paspates argued that the land walls of the Seraglio enclosure (where Topkapı Palace later stood) were built by Michael VIII Palaiologos. He believed that after 1261, the grounds around Seraglio Point became part of the imperial palace domain. His reasoning was based on a statement by Cantacuzene, who wrote that the Church of St. Demetrius was located inside the palace Bulgaria Tours.

However, this interpretation is not without problems. The Church of St. Demetrius connected with the emperors was not near the Seraglio Point but closer to the Pharos and the Chrysotriklinion of the Great Palace, further west. Therefore, it seems more likely that the Seraglio Point was not part of the main Byzantine palace complex in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The Storm of 1332

The work of Andronicus II on the Sea of Marmara walls did not last long. On February 12, 1332, just before his death, a powerful storm struck Constantinople. Fierce southern winds drove the waves over the battlements. The storm was so strong that it:

Broke open sections of the walls,

Forced the gates,

And flooded into the city like an invading army.

The sea devastated the nearby quarters of Constantinople, leaving significant destruction behind. Although chroniclers do not give detailed reports about the repairs, it is almost certain that the damage was later fixed by his successor, Andronicus III Palaiologos (1328–1341).

The Importance of Constant Repairs

This episode highlights an important truth about Byzantine Constantinople: the city was always vulnerable to both human attack and natural forces. While its land walls were nearly impregnable, the seaward walls often required repairs due to storms and erosion. Every emperor, from Michael VIII to Andronicus III, had to spend considerable time and resources on maintaining them.

The storm of 1332 is one of several natural disasters that tested the resilience of the city. Despite these challenges, Constantinople remained a symbol of endurance, protected by its fortifications until its final fall to the Ottomans in 1453.

The reigns of Michael VIII, Andronicus II, and Andronicus III demonstrate how crucial the walls of Constantinople were to the survival of the Byzantine Empire. Even nature itself could act like an enemy, as shown by the violent storm of 1332 that tore through the Marmara defenses. Yet, with every crisis, the Byzantines repaired and reinforced their walls, proving that Constantinople’s strength lay not only in stone and mortar but also in the determination of its rulers to defend it at all costs.

#The Fortifications of Constantinople in the Late Byzantine Period

Entering Hellenic Ground

When you leave Brindisi, heading east, you enter Hellenic land, the land of Greece. The Adriatic Sea, though often praised for its beauty, is known to have an unpredictable temperament. While it’s often called “the blue Adriatic,” “the gem of seas,” or “the sapphire sea,” it is also known as “the stormy Adriatic.” An experienced sailor once told me, “It can stir up more waves than the Atlantic Ocean with the slightest provocation.”

Steamers to Greece

The steamers to Greece usually leave Brindisi at midnight, so they can arrive at the Greek coast early in the morning. When you wake up, you might be able to see the sunrise over the Albanian mountains of Turkey, which are often covered with snow. This marks your arrival in the land of mythology. Every island, mountain, and valley here is linked to a Greek legend or an ancient battle from the classical world. You’ll find that the places and names of ancient history feel real and familiar as you look at them from the deck of the steamer.

The Island of Corfu

The first stop in Greece is Corfu, a beautiful island located off the coast of Turkey. Here, you get your first look at oriental life and its customs. Tourists often get excited and start taking pictures of everything, from the ruins to the unique scenes that remind them of the warriors, heroes, and philosophers they read about in their studies. Greece is full of such historical sites Private Sofia Tours.

Ithaca and the Odyssey

Ithaca, the island connected to Odysseus, stirs strong memories. According to Homer’s Odyssey, after being shipwrecked, Ulysses (Odysseus) landed on Corfu. He swam to the shore and, to protect himself from the cold, made a bed of dead leaves on the rocks. After enduring great hardships and dangers, he fell into a deep, dreamless sleep. There, he was discovered by Nausicaa, the daughter of King Alcinous. Homer describes Nausicaa’s beauty in detail, and she led Ulysses to her father’s palace. The palace had lovely gardens with delicious fruits, marking the beginning of Ulysses’ return journey after many years.

#Entering Hellenic Ground

The Gardens of the Bulgarian Czars

The palace of the Bulgarian czars once had beautiful gardens filled with fruit trees and flowering plants. Traces of these gardens can still be seen today. Whenever the ground is dug or a cellar is made for a new building, remains of past glory and sometimes Roman relics are discovered. Along the roadside, you can find mutilated remains of marble pillars and pedestals, along with capitals that have bulls’ heads and wreaths finely carved. There are also discs of glazed pottery, gilded glass, and pieces of molding with bronze still attached. Occasionally, fragments of plaster are found, still showing the colors of old frescoes Private Tour Ephesus.

The Geography of Bulgaria

Bulgaria is similar in size to Pennsylvania and has a similar shape. Its topography and physical features remind people of that state. The forests, rivers, and rich valleys, as well as the mountain ranges and rocky ledges, create a landscape very much like Pennsylvania’s. However, Bulgaria’s population is about thirty percent less than Pennsylvania’s. The Danube River forms Bulgaria’s northern border. Much of the country’s produce is shipped out via this river, and goods are brought in using huge barges that are towed in strings from Budapest and Vienna.

Trade and Transportation in Bulgaria

Austria controls much of Bulgaria’s trade, especially in manufactured goods. During the summer months, passenger steamers travel along the Danube, providing a pleasant journey through Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania, all the way to the Black Sea. However, in the fall, when the water level is low, fogs are common, and the air becomes too cool to sit comfortably on deck. During this time, it is better to travel by train.

You can reach Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, from Vienna in twenty-four hours by train. The train ride is comfortable, with sleeping cars and dining cars offering table d’hôte meals at city prices. However, the train fares can be quite high.

#The Gardens of the Bulgarian Czars

The Cistern of Bonus and Its Importance

The Cistern of Bonus was located in a particularly cool area of Constantinople, making it an ideal spot during the hot summer months. Due to this location, Emperor Romanus I decided to build a palace near the cistern. This palace, known as the New Palace of Bonus, served as his residence during the warmer season.

Cool Location and Attractive Views

In Constantinople, there was no cooler place to be in the summer than the terrace where the Mosque of Sultan Selim now stands. The area offered a great view of the Golden Horn, which made it even more attractive. This combination of coolness and breathtaking views made it the perfect spot for the emperor to escape the heat of the summer months Private Sofia Tour.

Proximity to the Church of the Holy Apostles

Another important factor to consider is the Cistern of Bonus’s proximity to the Church of the Holy Apostles. On the eve of an important annual service held in the church to honor Constantine the Great, the Imperial Court would often stay at the Palace of Bonus. This was done to be within easy riding distance of the church for the festival the next morning. The close location of the Palace of Bonus to the Church of the Holy Apostles made it a convenient place for the emperor and his court to stay during the event.

The Route from the Palace to the Church

On the way from the Palace of Bonus to the Church of the Holy Apostles, there was an old cistern that had been converted into market gardens. This cistern might have been the one near the Mosque of Sultan Selim, which further supports the idea that the Cistern of Bonus was located near the mosque.

The Wall of Constantine and Its Relation to the Cistern

The Wall of Constantine, which surrounded Constantinople, passed close to the Cistern of Bonus. Specifically, the wall moved from the Cistern of Aspar to the Golden Horn, passing near the Mosque of Sultan Selim. This supports the idea that the cistern near the mosque could have been the Cistern of Bonus.

A Key Difference in Identification

However, there is a significant issue with identifying the Cistern of Bonus with the reservoir near the Mosque of Sultan Selim. The Cistern of Bonus was roofed, while the reservoir beside the mosque appears to have always been open. This key difference suggests that while the two locations are close, they may not be the same.

The Cistern of Bonus played an important role in the life of Constantinople. It was strategically located in a cool and pleasant area, close to the Palace of Bonus and the Church of the Holy Apostles. While there is evidence to support its location near the Mosque of Sultan Selim, the difference in the structure of the cisterns makes it uncertain whether they are the same. Further research may be needed to fully confirm the exact location of this significant Byzantine landmark.

#The Cistern of Bonus and Its Importance

Elate Plaza Hotel

Location: H-8, Mladost-1, corner of bul. Alexander Malinov and bul. Andrey Saharov Contact: Tel/Fax: 974 49 48

Elate Plaza is a small, cozy, and charming hotel located just a four-minute drive south of Sofia’s airport. It sits in a quiet residential neighborhood, making it a peaceful place to stay for travelers.

The rooms at Elate Plaza come in various shapes and sizes. They have a modern style with warm red colors and bright bathrooms. Suites include bathtubs for added comfort. The hotel has a friendly, “make yourself at home” atmosphere, and the staff are very helpful and attentive.

For guests’ convenience, there is a fitness center with a sauna where you can relax after a busy day. The hotel also offers a conference hall that can hold up to 45 people, which makes it suitable for small business meetings Bulgaria Private Tour.

Bulgari Hotel

Location: A-2, Ul. Plrotska 50 Contact: Tel: 831 00 60

Bulgari Hotel is a small and welcoming place located in a lovely cobbled street in old Sofia. The hotel’s bright tangerine-colored rooms are on the smaller side but come with TVs and usually a small desk.

Bathrooms vary — some have bathtubs while others feature a traditional Bulgarian-style shower without a partition. One special room to request is the ‘Melnik’ room on the top floor, which has a glass-covered balcony that feels like a conservatory and offers great views of the sky.

Breakfast here is served on glass tables decorated with seashells, adding a nice touch to your morning. The hotel is known to be gay-friendly, welcoming all guests warmly.

Central Hotel

Location: B-2, bul. Hristo Botev 52 Contact: Tel: 981 23 64

Central Hotel is a relatively new hotel located in a convenient downtown area. It offers good value for money with comfortable facilities.

Rooms are decorated in a modern and practical style, mostly featuring showers instead of full bathtubs. The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Sofia’s city center.

Central Forum Hotel

Location: G-7, bul. Tsar Boris III 41 Contact: Tel: 954 44 44

Central Forum is a recently renovated hotel located about 1 km southwest of Sofia’s downtown area. It is in a mixed residential and commercial neighborhood, making it quiet yet close to the action.

The rooms are not very large but are decorated in soft, creamy colors designed to reduce stress. Although the hotel calls itself four stars, most rooms have showers, and only the ‘luxury’ rooms have real bathtubs.

One nice surprise is that some rooms have electric kettles, a feature rare in Bulgaria hotels.

#Elate Plaza Hotel

Destruction of Bulgarian Villages

The Carnegie Commission summarized the actions of the Greek Army with the following findings:

“Systematically and in cold blood, the Greeks burned one hundred and sixty Bulgarian villages and destroyed at least 16,000 Bulgarian homes.”

The Murder of the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop

Another terrible act was the murder of the Vicar of the Bulgarian Archbishop of Salonica, Archimandrite Eulogius. He was known to be a highly educated man and a patriot with noble and elevated views. His death marked another tragic incident in the conflict Guided Turkey Tours .

The Greek Army’s actions were marked by brutality and destruction against Bulgarian civilians. The letters and reports from the Carnegie Commission provide strong evidence of systematic violence and the killing of non-combatants, including women, children, and prisoners. The destruction of Bulgarian villages and homes was widespread, and even religious figures were not spared from violence.

#Destruction of Bulgarian Villages

The Prague Spring and Bulgaria's Response

The Prague Spring was a period of political liberalization in Czechoslovakia that took place in 1968. It started in early January and lasted until 20 August 1968. The movement was a time of reform and hopes for a more open, democratic society. However, it caused great concern among the communist governments in Eastern Europe, including Bulgaria, as it threatened Soviet control in the region.

Growing Concern in Eastern Europe

The Bulgaria and other Eastern European countries, which were under Soviet influence after World War II, were deeply worried about the changes taking place in Czechoslovakia. The communist party leadership in these countries feared the political liberalization could spread to their own nations. In response, the security services in these countries were given extra responsibilities to keep a close watch on young people and intellectuals who might support the reforms.

On 3 August 1968, the leaders of the Soviet Union, Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia met in Bratislava. The meeting resulted in the signing of the Bratislava Declaration, where the leaders expressed their unwavering loyalty to communism and rejected any influence from capitalism or the bourgeois ideology. Bulgarian leader Todor Zhivkov was the first to suggest that military action should be taken in Czechoslovakia to stop the political changes. He was supported by Walter Ulbricht of East Germany and Wladyslaw Gomulka of Poland Customized Tour Istanbul.

The Bulgarian Response to the Prague Spring

As the Prague Spring developed, a group of Czechoslovakian experts on Bulgarian language and literature became concerned about how events in Czechoslovakia were being reported in Bulgarian media. They felt that the Bulgarian press was spreading false information about the situation. In response, they sent an Open Letter to the Bulgarian “Literaturen Front” weekly expressing their worries about this misleading coverage.

Meanwhile, the Bulgarian government took action. On 2 August 1968, the Bulgarian Council of Ministers passed a top-secret decree known as Decree No. 39. This decree stated that Bulgaria would provide armed support to Czechoslovakia against what they called the “counter-revolution” in the country. The Bulgarian leadership believed that military intervention was necessary to stop the reforms in Czechoslovakia from spreading to other countries.

Military Intervention “Operation Danube”

On 21 August 1968, the military intervention called “Operation Danube” began. This operation involved joint military forces from the Soviet Union, East Germany, Poland, Bulgaria, and Hungary invading Czechoslovakia to suppress the reforms. Bulgaria contributed two rifle regiments (the 12th and 22nd regiments), with a total of 2,164 soldiers and 26 tanks.

The intervention crushed the Prague Spring and restored strict Soviet control over Czechoslovakia. The leaders of the Prague Spring, including Alexander Dubček, were forced to abandon their reforms, and the political situation in the country returned to its previous, more repressive state.

The Prague Spring was a turning point in the history of Czechoslovakia and Eastern Europe. It showed the desire for political freedom and reform in a region controlled by the Soviet Union. However, the Soviet-led invasion, with support from countries like Bulgaria, ended the reform movement and reinforced Soviet dominance in Eastern Europe. For Bulgaria, it was a clear sign of its commitment to the Soviet bloc and its willingness to use force to maintain the status quo in the region.

#The Prague Spring and Bulgaria's Response

Religion and State in Ancient Times

In the beginning of written history, polytheistic (belief in many gods) religions were closely linked with the relationship between the state and the public. Later, during the late ancient period and the Middle Ages, monotheistic (belief in one god) religions replaced the old practices, showing that religion was deeply tied to the traditions of the state.

The Role of Prytaneion in Ancient Greece

In ancient Greek city-states, the role of religious and public duties was carried out by an office known as Prytaneion. This office continued until the late Roman period. The people who held this office, known as prytanists (also called curatores in Latin), were both priests and state officers. These prytanists were typically wealthy and noble men over the age of forty who served in the boule (city council) Customized Tour Bulgaria.

During their service, prytanists had several important duties. They had to protect the sacred fire (known as hestia), organize festivals and games, serve both the state and the domestic gods, and carry out ceremonies for them. They also had to take on the financial responsibilities of the city.

Women in the Prytaneion

Women could also serve in the Prytaneion, as shown in the epigraphs (inscriptions). These women were usually the wives or daughters of high-ranking state officers. By the 1st century AD, Greek cities and emperors were honored with the title of prytaneist.

The Prytaneion Complex in Ephesus

The Prytaneion in Ephesus was an important building, covering an area of about 1000 square meters. It was divided into rooms of different sizes. The central area, known as the Hestia (the fire section), was the heart of the building and measured 15×14 meters. The building was ordered to be constructed by Roman Emperor Augustus in the 1st century BC, and it was completed by the middle of the 3rd century AD.

Discovery and Protection of the Prytaneion

The exact location of the original Prytaneion is unknown, but its importance as a pioneering structure is clear. Part of the epigraph (inscription) was found in the Prytaneion and the city walls of Ayasuluk. Today, most of the inscriptions are protected in a gallery beneath the Domitian Temple and are displayed in the Selçuk Archaeological Museum.

#Religion and State in Ancient Times

Traveling to Kavala

To the south of Drama is the old town of Kavala, located on the coast. It takes about four hours to ride there. The journey passes through the flat Drama plain, miles of tobacco fields, and the remains of the ancient city of Philippi.

The Ruins of Philippi

The only building left in Philippi is a rundown coffee house with a muddy floor. It is a place where travelers can rest their horses and have a break. The people in the coffee house, who were Turks, didn’t know much about the city’s history. There was a step made of marble with a Roman inscription, and marble blocks were scattered around. One side of the coffee house was part of a large block of marble. This marble was likely built to honor the Romans after their victory in the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, where Augustus and Antony defeated Brutus and Cassius. The marble had holes for tying horses. When I asked the Turks what the marble pillar meant, they looked confused and said it was built in honor of a great Turkish general!

The History of Philippi

Not much is left of Philippi. The few ruins that remain tell the story of a town that lived and thrived for about 30 centuries. The first people in the area were probably Thracians who mined gold in the nearby mountains. They built a town to protect themselves from invading tribes who wanted to steal the gold. The town, called Datus or Datum, existed as early as 11 centuries before Christ. It was a prosperous town until the 4th century BC Who we are.

The fame of the gold mines was so great that the ancient Athenians tried to take control of the town. They attempted this many times, and in 360 BC, the Thasians, encouraged by an Athenian leader named Callistrates, captured Datus and renamed it Krenides. However, the Thasians only held the town for two years before the original inhabitants fought back. They forced the Thasians to seek help from Philip of Macedon, who had long wanted to take the town. Philip used this chance to capture the town, expand it, and build beautiful structures. He renamed the city Philippi after himself. The gold mines he developed made him a lot of money, with a revenue of a thousand talents.

#Traveling to Kavala

Bulgaria’s Agricultural Potential

Bulgaria has huge opportunities for agriculture. The country is about the same size as Ireland and Wales combined. The soil is fertile almost everywhere, although there are some areas that are hard to farm because the soil has too many stones. Bulgaria has many smaller trees, and its vegetables, fruits, and vineyards are of high quality. There are also many wheat and tobacco fields, and plenty of cattle.

The Peasant Farming System

I’ve already mentioned the work of the peasants. The way they own and use their land is partly a holdover from when the Turks ruled. Under Turkish rule, landowners had to give a tenth of their produce to the Sultan’s tax collectors. If the land was not worked for three years, or if the owner died without heirs, the Sultan would take the land. After Bulgaria’s independence, the state took over this role. Under Turkish rule, peasants paid taxes with goods, but in recent years, the Bulgarian government has tried to make them pay in cash. This has not worked well, because it is easy for peasants to give away part of their harvest, but once they turn it into cash, it is much harder to part with it Customized Tours Bulgaria.

Christian and Muslim Villages

Along the Turkish border, there are villages with both Christian and Muslim people. When Bulgaria became independent, many Turks left for Turkey because they feared revenge for the violence the Bulgarians had suffered under Turkish rule. However, in recent years, many Turks have returned. Today, about three-quarters of a million of the 3.5 million people in Bulgaria are Muslims.

The Pomaks: Bulgarian Muslims

I took a trip into the mountains south of Philippopolis, a region that is mostly unknown in Europe. There, I saw the Pomaks, who are Bulgarian Muslims. Some experts believe the Pomaks might be a separate ethnic group.

#Bulgarias Agricultural Potential

Current Conditions for Bulgarians

The plight of the Bulgarian population is increasingly dire, as they face numerous challenges and systemic injustices. Many are forced to pay for the right to harvest their own crops, and their livestock—essential for their livelihoods—are routinely seized. Those who dare to complain or show any resistance are met with violence, often suffering beatings or even worse.

Exploitation and Abuse

In addition to the economic exploitation, women in these communities face horrific abuses. Instances of women being seized and assaulted are alarmingly frequent. During our visit to Kritchina, we encountered individuals from the neighboring village of Tchanaktchi. These villagers had come to plead for financial assistance to buy back their cattle, which had been taken by the Turks. The Turks were willing to return the animals, but only if the villagers could pay a specified sum for each head of cattle. Unfortunately, the villagers had no funds available, leaving them in a desperate situation.

Forced Labor and Unfair Conditions

In another nearby village, whose name I have unfortunately forgotten but is known to Mr. Schuyler and Mr. Baring, the locals were permitted to gather their harvests only on the condition that they surrender half of their entire crop to their Turkish neighbors. This was only ten miles from Philippopolis, underscoring the extent of the oppression faced by the Bulgarian people Private Bulgaria Tours Yachting.

At Perushtitsa, which is even closer, those who survived the recent massacres and pillaging found themselves further victimized. They still had some cattle left in the fields after their homes were burned, but these were seized by Turks from the nearby village of Ustuna. Despite the villagers’ pleas for the return of their livestock, the Turks refused to comply. Following our visit, they drove the cattle into a distant area and sold them, fearing that we might report their actions to the governor.

Ineffectiveness of Local Authorities

While Mr. Schuyler was in Avrat-Alan, we learned of an incident where Turks from a nearby village seized six horses that were working in the fields, located no more than a mile away. When we raised this issue with the local Mudir, he expressed his helplessness. He claimed he had no authority over the Turks from the village where the horses had been taken. Furthermore, he warned that if he sent his zaptiehs (police officers) to intervene, they would likely be beaten and sent back without taking any action.

This systemic failure of local authorities to protect the rights and safety of the Bulgarian people reveals the depth of their suffering. They are left vulnerable and without recourse, forced to endure economic exploitation and violent oppression without any means of seeking justice.

The situation for the Bulgarian population is one of unrelenting hardship and injustice. The combination of economic exploitation, physical violence, and systemic abuse paints a grim picture of life in these communities. It is essential for the international community to recognize these issues and advocate for the rights and dignity of the Bulgarian people. Only through awareness and action can we hope to bring about meaningful change and relief for those suffering in silence.

#Current Conditions for Bulgarians

Current Conditions for Bulgarians

The plight of the Bulgarian population is increasingly dire, as they face numerous challenges and systemic injustices. Many are forced to pay for the right to harvest their own crops, and their livestock—essential for their livelihoods—are routinely seized. Those who dare to complain or show any resistance are met with violence, often suffering beatings or even worse.

Exploitation and Abuse

In addition to the economic exploitation, women in these communities face horrific abuses. Instances of women being seized and assaulted are alarmingly frequent. During our visit to Kritchina, we encountered individuals from the neighboring village of Tchanaktchi. These villagers had come to plead for financial assistance to buy back their cattle, which had been taken by the Turks. The Turks were willing to return the animals, but only if the villagers could pay a specified sum for each head of cattle. Unfortunately, the villagers had no funds available, leaving them in a desperate situation.

Forced Labor and Unfair Conditions

In another nearby village, whose name I have unfortunately forgotten but is known to Mr. Schuyler and Mr. Baring, the locals were permitted to gather their harvests only on the condition that they surrender half of their entire crop to their Turkish neighbors. This was only ten miles from Philippopolis, underscoring the extent of the oppression faced by the Bulgarian people Private Bulgaria Tours Yachting.

At Perushtitsa, which is even closer, those who survived the recent massacres and pillaging found themselves further victimized. They still had some cattle left in the fields after their homes were burned, but these were seized by Turks from the nearby village of Ustuna. Despite the villagers’ pleas for the return of their livestock, the Turks refused to comply. Following our visit, they drove the cattle into a distant area and sold them, fearing that we might report their actions to the governor.

Ineffectiveness of Local Authorities

While Mr. Schuyler was in Avrat-Alan, we learned of an incident where Turks from a nearby village seized six horses that were working in the fields, located no more than a mile away. When we raised this issue with the local Mudir, he expressed his helplessness. He claimed he had no authority over the Turks from the village where the horses had been taken. Furthermore, he warned that if he sent his zaptiehs (police officers) to intervene, they would likely be beaten and sent back without taking any action.

This systemic failure of local authorities to protect the rights and safety of the Bulgarian people reveals the depth of their suffering. They are left vulnerable and without recourse, forced to endure economic exploitation and violent oppression without any means of seeking justice.

The situation for the Bulgarian population is one of unrelenting hardship and injustice. The combination of economic exploitation, physical violence, and systemic abuse paints a grim picture of life in these communities. It is essential for the international community to recognize these issues and advocate for the rights and dignity of the Bulgarian people. Only through awareness and action can we hope to bring about meaningful change and relief for those suffering in silence.

#Current Conditions for Bulgarians

The Underground Resistance Movements in Bulgaria

Overview of Resistance Organizations

During the oppressive years of the communist regime in Bulgaria, many underground organizations formed to resist the government’s actions, particularly against land appropriation and political repression. These groups, composed of brave individuals from various backgrounds, organized armed resistance and sought to protect their rights and freedoms.

Union of Free Warriors

The “Union of Free Warriors” was established in the Pazardzhik region in 1949. This organization was created to oppose the forced land appropriations that the government was carrying out. With about 280 members, they formed an armed Goriyani detachment to fight against these injustices.

Underground Patriotic Organization

In the Trun region, the “Underground Patriotic Organization” was set up in 1949. Led by Nikola Yordanov, also known as Gudzho, this group initially had around 80 members. Under his leadership, the detachment grew to 450 members and organized itself into 30 fighting groups, covering 40 villages in the Breznik region and 10 villages in Trun Istanbul Day Tour.

Bulgarian Resistance Movement The “Bulgarian Resistance Movement” was formed in the autumn of 1950 under the leadership of Blagoy Zlatanski, who would later be executed by a firing squad in 1953. This organization had about 200 members and maintained close ties with the Goriyani movement in the Dupnitsa region.

Orange Party

The “Orange Party” was another underground group created in the Yambol district in 1950, formed by poor and middle-class peasants. They successfully set up structures in 21 villages, showing the widespread resistance against the regime.

Agrarian Centers and Youth Organizations

In the autumn of 1950, the “District Agrarian Center No. 1” was established in the Rousse region. Additionally, an Underground Organization of Samokov was formed around the same time but was discovered by the government in late 1951, leading to the execution of its leaders.

The “Committee for Resistance”, led by Kosta Deykov, also emerged in the Sliven region in 1950 and created a Goriyani detachment that spread across 19 villages in the Sliven, Kazanluk, and Nova Zagora districts.

Youth Activism

Youth organizations were particularly active during this time. The Agrarian Youth Union was created in Sofia in 1950 to fight against the regime. The “Call for Freedom” was another youth group founded in the Ihtiman region in the summer of 1950, led by Slavcho Zashev, who was sentenced to death in 1952.

Additional Organizations

Several other underground organizations were formed during this period, including:

“Partisan Students”, a group of expelled students in Sofia in 1951. “I Am Bulgarian”, created in the Plovdiv region in 1951. “The Goriyani Bulgarian Resistance Movement”, established on April 15, 1951, in Plovdiv. This group focused on training armed resistance units and set up four Goriyani detachments in various districts.

These underground organizations played a significant role in the resistance against the communist regime in Bulgaria. Despite facing harsh repression, their members showed immense courage and dedication in their fight for freedom and justice. Each group, from the Union of Free Warriors to the Goriyani Bulgarian Resistance Movement, contributed to the broader struggle for democracy and human rights in Bulgaria.

#The Underground Resistance Movements in Bulgaria