Origins and Formation (681 - 865)

• First Bulgarian Empire: Founded in 681, Bulgaria rapidly expanded its territory. It integrated Slavic tribes and established a strong and unified state. The First Empire was known for its military prowess and diplomatic engagements.
• Cultural Development: The adoption of Christianity in 864 under Boris I marked a significant transformation. This led to the establishment of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and strengthened the cultural and political unity of the Bulgarian people.

The Golden Age (9th - 11th Century)

• Cyril and Methodius: The creation of the Cyrillic alphabet by disciples of Saints Cyril and Methodius (who initially developed the Glagolitic alphabet) fostered literacy and education among the Slavic peoples.
• Tsardom of Simeon I (893 - 927): Under Simeon, Bulgaria reached its zenith. During his reign, the state expanded its borders to include much of the Balkans, and Bulgaria became a center of culture and learning. The period is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Bulgarian culture, as literature, art, and education flourished.

Political Struggles and Revival (11th - 14th Century)

• Struggles Against Byzantium: After the fall of the First Bulgarian Empire in 1018, Bulgaria came under Byzantine control. Nonetheless, the desire for independence continued, leading to various uprisings.
• Second Bulgarian Empire (1185 - 1396): The successful uprising led by the Asen and Peter brothers established the Second Bulgarian Empire. This period is characterized by cultural revival, economic growth, and relative stability amidst the chaos of the Crusades and Mongol invasions.

Ottoman Conquest (1396 - 1878)

• Decline and Subjugation: By the late 14th century, the Ottomans had invaded Bulgaria. Although Bulgaria lost its independence, the language and culture endured amid Ottoman rule, and many Bulgarians served in important roles within the empire.
• National Awakening: During the 18th and 19th centuries, a national revival occurred. Figures like Vassil Levski and Hristo Botev emerged, advocating for independence and cultural revival. Education and literacy saw significant increases, laying the groundwork for a national identity.

Liberation and the Establishment of the Tsardom (1878 - 1944)

• Liberation: Bulgaria gained autonomy from the Ottoman Empire through the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), leading to the Treaty of San Stefano, which established a large Bulgarian state.
• Formation of the Principality of Bulgaria: In 1879, the Principality of Bulgaria was formally established, later becoming a Tsardom in 1908 with the declaration of independence.
• Economic Growth: The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by significant modernization efforts, including infrastructure development, industrialization, and a flourishing agricultural sector.

World Wars and Aftermath (1912 - 1944)

• Balkan Wars (1912-1913): Bulgaria sought to expand its territory but faced setbacks during the Balkan Wars. Despite initial successes, the outcome led to territorial losses.
• World War I: Bulgaria joined the Central Powers but faced defeat. The post-war Treaty of Neuilly (1919) imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses, leading to economic hardships.
• Interwar Period: Despite challenges, Bulgaria saw periods of cultural and economic revival, with advancements in art, literature, and science.
• Map Of The Empire Of Bulgaria (Albania is a crown colony)

Map Of The Empire Of Bulgaria (Bulgaria, Wallachia, Albania)