Peace Built on Broken Treaties

The peace in Europe, after the Balkan War, was based on two broken treaties. The Concert of Europe, which was supposed to ensure peace based on the Treaty of Berlin, has spent recent years ignoring it. Instead of keeping the peace, the European powers have focused on breaking it. The Concert of Europe has repeatedly failed at honest diplomacy because of the rival ambitions and conflicting interests of powerful nations who are all heavily armed.

The Failure of Diplomacy

Before the Balkan War, the Concert of Europe declared that no matter who won the war, neither side would be allowed to gain any land or benefits. But this was just an empty promise.

Instead, the Treaty of Berlin was ignored and torn apart by Austria, Italy, Romania, and the Balkan States. Other agreements, like the one between Serbia and Bulgaria, and the agreement made between Romania and Bulgaria in Petrograd, were also violated. Even the Treaty of London, which was supposed to ensure peace, ended up in the trash Turkey Sightseeing.

Turkey’s Disregard for Europe

Turkey completely ignored the protests from the European Powers, treating them with contempt. This situation paints a very humiliating picture for Europe. The great powers, who were supposed to be the protectors of peace, watched passively as the smaller nations were betrayed and taken advantage of.

Bulgaria’s Struggle

The bravest and most freedom-loving people in the Balkans were attacked by their former allies, with the help of an old friend. Bulgaria was abandoned by the Slav Powers and forced to demobilize, leaving it defenseless and isolated. Bulgaria had to try to negotiate with Turkey to secure what little was left of the Treaty of London, which had been dishonestly broken.

Europe’s Consequences

Europe’s failure to act fairly has led to its own downfall. As the saying goes, “you reap what you sow.” The Concert of Europe sowed chaos, and now it faces the consequences.

Mr. Asquith's Statement on Smaller Nationalities

Recently, in Dublin, Mr. Asquith spoke about one of the main reasons for the current war. He said:

“It means that room must be made and kept for smaller nationalities to exist and develop freely, each with its own identity.”

The Corporate Consciousness of the Bulgarian People

The list of Churches, Priests, Schools, and Scholars in the areas liberated by the Allies shows the identity (or corporate consciousness) of the Bulgarian people in those regions. The Treaty of Bucharest gave parts of this land to Greece and Serbia, leading to the suppression of this Bulgarian identity in those areas Sightseeing Turkey.

To understand the importance of this list, we need to remember that after Bulgaria became stronger following its liberation, Turkey tried to stop its growth in Macedonia. Turkey did this by closing many Bulgarian schools and churches. This persecution became even worse with the massacres of 1903, which mainly targeted Bulgarians and, sadly, were supported by the Greeks in some cases.

The Loss of Bulgarian Territories

Additionally, Turkey took back a large part of the land that was given to Bulgaria by the Treaty of Bucharest. This land once had:

83 Priests

81 Churches

184 Teachers

99 Schools

5,597 Scholars

When the Turks regained control of this area, almost all Bulgarians fled, except for a few in Adrianople and Kirk Kiiisse. These people were not allowed to return by the Turks.

The Loss of Bulgarian Influence in Freed Territories

Of the territory freed by the Treaty of London, where the Bulgarian race’s identity was shown through:

1,310 Priests

1,331 Churches

294 Chapels

1,373 Schools

2,266 Teachers

78,854 Scholars

Bulgaria has lost land that had:

1,029 Priests

1,058 Churches

147 Chapels

67 Monasteries

1,035 Schools

1,778 Teachers

60,549 Scholars

The Fate of Bulgarians in Turkey, Greece, and Serbia

In Turkey, there are almost no Bulgarians left. In Greece and Serbia, the churches and schools have been taken over, and Bulgarians are no longer served by their own priests. The younger generation is not allowed to learn in their own language anymore.

The Greek Church Controlled Education in Bulgaria Before the Exarchate

Before the Bulgarian Exarchate was established, the Greek Church was the only Orthodox Church recognized by the Turkish government.

In Turkey, all education was run by the churches, so Greeks controlled the education of Bulgarians. The Turkish government treated Bulgarians as if they were Greeks, and the Greeks encouraged this, as it suited their plans.

The Revival of the Bulgarian Exarchate

After a long struggle, the Bulgarian Exarchate was revived and recognized by the Turks. But, the Greek Patriarch declared the Bulgarian Church to be schismatic (separated from the main Church) and excommunicated it Sightseeing Turkey.

The Difficult Situation for Bulgarians in Greek and Serbian Territories

This explains why Bulgarians in Greek and Serbian Macedonia faced such bitter conditions. In these areas:

Their churches and schools were taken away.

They were not allowed to learn in their own language.

They could only receive religious services from priests who viewed them as schismatics.

Bulgaria’s Efforts to Help Bulgarians Outside Its Borders

Even though the Treaty of Berlin gave Bulgaria only part of Macedonia, the country did a lot to support Bulgarians living in the parts of Macedonia that were separated from it.

This shows how deeply Bulgaria was involved in the lives of its people in these areas and helps explain why there are now over 160,000 refugees from these regions in Bulgaria. These refugees fled from their supposed “liberators” who treated them badly.

Bulgarian Exarchate in 1911

In 1911, the Bulgarian Exarchate had:

Churches

Chapels

Metropolitan Bishops

Priests

Schools

Teachers

Scholars

The following data shows the number of these institutions in Macedonia and Thrace, areas that were later assigned to Greece and Serbia by the Treaty of Bucharest.

Justice Was Overshadowed by Power and Lies

The idea of justice was pushed aside by the ambitions of the Great Powers and a campaign of lies spread during Bulgaria’s time of isolation. At that time, Bulgaria had no way to communicate its side to Western Europe.

A War for Freedom Became a War for Control

The war began as a fight to free oppressed people, but it changed into a war of conquest when Romania joined in—even though Romania had done nothing to help in the early fight for liberation Guided Turkey Tours .

Bulgarians Suffer Under New Oppression

A large part of the Bulgarian people, who had once been promised freedom from Turkish rule, were placed back under foreign control by the Treaty of Berlin.

Even worse, after being free from Turkish rule since 1878, some Bulgarians were handed over to Romania, which ruled them with even more harshness and lack of sympathy than the Turks.

Lies That Misled Europe

In 1913, many false stories were told about Bulgaria, and these lies seriously influenced European opinion. Fortunately, the Carnegie Commission later reviewed the situation and exposed the truth in a fair and unbiased way.

The Treaty of Bucharest Must Be Fixed

If the Balkans are ever to have lasting peace, the unfair terms of the Treaty of Bucharest must be corrected. And the sooner this happens, the better.

Even today, Romania, Greece, and Serbia are using the same dishonest tactics they used during the Balkan War to mislead the world once again.

A Personal Appeal for Fairness

I have spent ten years living and working among the Bulgarian people. During that time, I came to not only admire them, but to truly care for and love them.

So now, I am sharing these facts with you—facts that I hope will help you understand how much Bulgaria has done for its people, especially in Turkish lands, ever since the founding of the Bulgarian Exarchate, in the forty years before the 1912–13 war.

The British Empire Won Loyalty Without Promises

In the British Empire, no race needed promises of future freedom or religious rights to give their support. Their loyalty came naturally, without needing political deals.

Has Injustice Brought Any Real Gain?

Let’s look at how unfair actions have hurt different countries:

Did Russia truly gain by taking Bessarabia from Romania in 1878?

Did Romania become stronger by taking Dobrudja from Bulgaria—its richest land—at a time when Bulgaria was weak and alone?

Has Greece gained strength by taking land in Macedonia, which was known to be Bulgarian? Greece even carried out massacres against the Bulgarians who didn’t flee Guided Turkey Tours .

That land was promised to Bulgaria in the Treaty of San Stefano and was vital for Bulgaria’s economic growth.

Serbia’s Broken Promise

Is Serbia any stronger now, during its struggles, because it broke its treaty with Bulgaria before the war with Turkey? Serbia took Bulgarian-inhabited land that had been officially recognized as Bulgarian by treaty.

Europe’s Failure to Respect Agreements

Has Europe benefitted by allowing Turkey to take advantage of Romania’s surprise attack on Bulgaria, and use that moment to break the Treaty of London—signed just months earlier with the help of Sir Edward Grey?

The truth is, today’s crisis in Europe is largely the result of ignoring treaties and disrespecting the wishes of local people in the lands being fought over.

Bulgaria Was Treated Unfairly

Where was the justice when Europe stood by silently as Bulgaria lost nearly all the rewards of her hard-won victories?

Even though Bulgaria had made huge sacrifices in blood and resources for the cause of freedom, she was robbed of the benefits she deserved.

The Balkans Are Still Unsettled

Dear Harcourt,

No one can honestly say that the situation in the Balkan Peninsula is either stable or satisfying. History shows us that even the most powerful empires cannot ignore the national feelings of smaller nations without consequences.

Bulgaria’s Fight for Freedom and Unity

It was Bulgaria’s strong desire to unite and free its people that gave it the strength to defeat the Turkish armies and win great victories. Even though those victories didn’t lead to all their goals, they earned Bulgaria lasting honor Guided Turkey Tours .

National Identity Is a Great Strength

In this huge world war, we’ve seen how powerful national identity can be. Respecting a nation’s feelings and rights has brought strength, while ignoring them has led to weakness.

National Pride Across Europe

What gave Belgium the courage to stand up to Germany? It was their national pride.

What drives France to fight so hard? Their deep desire to win back their lost lands and people.

And what made Ireland so willing to support Great Britain? It was being granted more self-government.

Freedom Makes Empires Stronger

What has made the British Empire stronger during this war? It’s the way different nationalities and regions have been given freedom and recognition. This has led to loyalty and unity across the Empire.

Each part of the Empire—despite being made up of many races and beliefs—has come together, proudly flying the flag. As freedom within the Empire has grown, so has its power and safety.

Now, in this war, we are seeing a great union of free people, all showing how strong freedom can make us.

Moving Beyond Blame

Some time ago, people criticized Bulgaria and questioned her reputation. However, it’s the job of history—not politics—to decide who was truly at fault. Right now, Bulgaria must focus on the present, not the past. There are more urgent and serious issues that need attention.

The Future of the Slavic People

The Slavic nations are at a turning point. The outcome of the great war (World War I) will decide whether they are freed or face worse oppression. Russia, the traditional protector of the Slavs, is now fighting alongside England and France, who have always supported freedom and independence in Europe.

The Allies and Their Mission

The goal of Russia, England, and France is to defeat German militarism, which threatens the peace and independence of small nations all across Europe. If the Allies succeed in breaking this dangerous power, then all Slavic countries, including Bulgaria, will gain—both in territory and in freedom Guided Tours Turkey.

The Risk of Defeat

But if the Allies fail or only partially succeed, then all Slavic nations will suffer—especially Bulgaria. The old enemy of the Slavs, the Ottoman Turks, have joined forces with Germany and Austria in the Pan-Germanic League. If these powers win, the Turks might return to Europe and take back the lands they once controlled—lands they ruled with cruelty and violence for centuries.

Bulgaria’s Difficult Position

Bulgaria may still feel bitter toward its former allies from the First Balkan War. It might even want to see them suffer. But this war is bigger than past rivalries. If Serbia falls, Bulgaria and all Slavic nations are in danger. This is no longer about one country—it’s about the survival of the entire Slavic people.

Who Should Control the Aegean Gateway?

Only two countries have a strong reason to control the route to the Aegean Sea: Austria-Hungary and Bulgaria. Austria-Hungary wants the port city of Salonica mainly for military and economic reasons. Its leaders in Vienna are simply waiting for the right moment to act.

Bulgaria’s Strong Argument

Bulgaria also waits patiently, believing it has a stronger claim. Bulgarians argue that the majority of people in Macedonia are ethnically Bulgarian—they share the same blood, language, and culture Guided Tours Turkey.

To weaken Austria-Hungary’s position, Bulgarians point out that the empire already includes many different, often conflicting, ethnic groups. Some people even within Austria worry that trying to take more territory will cause the empire to collapse after the death of Emperor Franz Josef.

Ethnic Unity Is the Key

In Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, leaders believe that the only lasting solution for the Balkans is one based on ethnic identity. They think people should be governed by leaders who share their language, culture, and heritage.

This belief follows the ideas of Cavour, an Italian leader who helped unite Italy. He said that nationalism—loyalty to your nation or ethnic group—was the most important political force of his time. Today, Tsar Ferdinand and all of Bulgaria believe the same is true for the Balkans.

Bulgaria Is Ready for the Future

Bulgaria has worked hard and waited patiently. Leaders believe that the changes still to come in the Balkans must respect the will and identity of the people. What Bulgaria has done so far is just the beginning of a larger, unfolding story in the region.

Bulgarians Are the Majority in Macedonia

Most people living in Macedonia are Bulgarians. Even though Greek efforts to spread their influence are loud and active, they are not widely accepted in the region. These Greek actions are seen as unnatural and not truly connected to the local population.

Greeks Refuse a Fair Vote

One strong piece of evidence showing Greece’s weak position in Macedonia is their strong opposition to holding a fair vote. Bulgarians have repeatedly suggested a plebiscite—a public vote—to let the people of Macedonia choose which nation they feel connected to. This vote would be managed by international authorities to ensure fairness.

If the Greeks really believed that most people in Macedonia were Greek, they would accept the vote. But their refusal suggests they know the majority are not on their side Guided Tours Turkey.

Italian Claims Are Unfounded

Italy has also claimed a part of Macedonia, but these claims are not taken seriously. There is no historical or ethnic reason for Italy to be involved—no area of Macedonia is home to Italian-speaking people or anyone with Italian roots.

Italy only tries to justify its presence by saying it wants to protect the Albanians, even though Albanians don’t speak Italian or have any close ties to Italy.

Serbia’s Claims Are Limited

Serbia’s claims are a bit more believable than Italy’s but still limited. Serbian influence is mostly in the vilayet (region) of Kossovo, also known as “Old Serbia.” Even the most extreme Serbian nationalists do not claim land beyond that region.

So, while Serbia does have some connection to part of Macedonia, it does not extend over the entire area.

Bulgaria’s Dream Faces Challenges

Tsar Ferdinand of Bulgaria and his advisors clearly understand how difficult it is to unite Bulgaria with its neighboring regions. They know that Austria wants the city of Salonica, and they are also aware of the competing claims made by Italy, Serbia, and Greece.

Obstacles, But Not Impossible

Even though there are many challenges to creating a “Great Bulgaria,” the leaders in Sofia do not believe these problems are impossible to overcome. History in the Balkans has shown that surprising things can happen.

Surprising Events in the Past

Before 1885, no one would have believed that Bulgaria could take control of Eastern Roumelia without fighting a war—but it happened. Before October 5 of this year, people would have laughed at the idea that Bulgaria could declare independence from the Ottoman Empire without causing a Balkan war—but that also came true. These events are now officially recorded in government history Guided Tours Turkey.

A New Opportunity Ahead

There are signs that Bulgaria’s leaders believe a new opportunity is coming. They think the powerful countries of Europe might soon realign in a way that allows Tsar Ferdinand more freedom to deal with the Macedonian issue.

The Macedonian Question Isn’t So Complicated

Although many politicians loudly argue about the situation in Macedonia, the Bulgarian government believes the problem is not as complex as it seems. They remain hopeful that the dream of a united Bulgarian nation can still come true.

The Dream of a Great Bulgaria

Since gaining their freedom, Bulgarians have dreamed of creating a “Great Bulgaria”—a strong and united nation that includes all Bulgarians, even those outside current borders. This idea is supported by everyone: government leaders, soldiers, and ordinary people. It’s more than just a political goal—it’s a source of pride and unity.

People are willing to pay taxes and send their sons to the army because they believe in this goal. The energy and determination of the Bulgarian people remind some observers of how Japan quickly became powerful or how Prussia grew into a major force in Europe Guided Tours Turkey.

The Importance of Macedonia

In the capital city of Sofia, leaders understand that the future of the entire Balkan region depends on solving the problems in Macedonia. For 30 years, since Bulgaria became free, it has worked hard to support Bulgarian communities living across the border in Macedonia.

Harsh Life Under Ottoman Rule

Macedonians, still ruled by the Ottoman Empire, face a tough life. They are forced to pay high taxes for schools that are never built. They are charged for public services and improvements that never happen. They pay to support police and courts, but they still live in fear, with no protection for their lives or property.

Even though the Treaty of Berlin promised them basic rights, the Ottoman government has failed to keep those promises. As a result, Macedonians have turned to Bulgaria for help and support.

Bulgaria’s Support for Macedonians

Bulgaria has invested heavily in helping Macedonians. Bulgarian schools in Macedonia are funded mostly by Bulgaria, showing how deeply the country believes in unity among all Bulgarians. Many refugees from Macedonia have fled to Bulgaria, which has placed a burden on both the government and private charities.

Still, Bulgaria continues to welcome them. The Macedonians see Bulgaria as their natural protector—a country that shares their language, culture, and hopes for the future.

State Security's Operation Against Dissidents

In 1981-1982, the Bulgarian State Security conducted a major surveillance operation called “Dissidents”. This operation targeted a group of creative artists in cities such as Sofia, Bourgas, Varna, Stara Zagora, Yambol, and other areas. The authorities arrested individuals accused of anti-regime activities. Some of them were sent to psychiatric clinics as a way of silencing them. In total, 312 authors of anti-regime leaflets were identified in 1982, with about 45% of them being young people. During this period, the State Security also recorded 141 incidents related to anti-Soviet sentiments.

Rise of Informal Youth Groups

The influence of events in Poland sparked an increase in informal youth groups in Bulgaria. In 1982, there were 64 informal groups with 295 participants, a sharp rise compared to 1980, when there were only 18 groups with 86 members. These groups were seen as a growing threat by the government, as they represented a form of resistance and protest against the communist regime.

“An Open Letter of Appeal”

In autumn 1986, a group of former political prisoners wrote an “Open Letter of Appeal” to the Vienna Conference, which was reviewing the implementation of the Helsinki agreement on human rights. The letter was addressed to representatives of European countries, the USA, and Canada, urging them not to end the conference until the fundamental human rights of all European citizens were fully guaranteed. The authors of the letter stressed that every European citizen should have the freedom to express their thoughts and beliefs, both in oral and written form, without the fear of persecution Customized Tour Istanbul.

Declaration on Human Rights

Along with the Open Letter, the authors also signed a Declaration that was attached to the Memorandum of Dissidents. This memorandum, signed by dissidents from four Eastern European countries, marked the anniversaries of significant uprisings: the Hungarian Uprising, the Berlin Uprising, the Prague Spring, and the Polish events. The declaration highlighted the desire for democracy and freedom in Eastern Europe.

The authors of these documents were Iliya Minev, Eduard Genov, Grigor Simov, Tseko Krustev, Stefan Savovski, and Bozhidar Statev. On 16 January 1988, these individuals founded the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association. The goal of the association was to defend human rights and freedoms, which had been severely violated for over 40 years under the communist regime in Bulgaria.

The State Security’s efforts to suppress dissent and protest during the early 1980s showed the extent to which the communist regime sought to control the population. However, these efforts also led to the formation of independent human rights movements, like the Bulgarian Independent Human Rights Association, which sought to challenge the oppressive government and advocate for freedom of speech and human rights.