Bulgaria Gains Limited Independence

After the end of the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), the Great Powers of Europe met in Berlin to decide the future of the Balkan countries. At the Congress of Berlin, they told the people of Bulgaria that they could manage their own government and choose their own king. However, this independence came with conditions.

Although Bulgaria was now mostly self-governing, it still had to pay an annual tribute to the Ottoman Sultan, instead of the taxes the Sultan used to collect directly. The amount of this payment was never clearly decided, and the financial relationship between the two nations became confusing and disorganized. To this day, it remains unclear, and an international commission may be needed in the future to settle the issue Local Ephesus Tour Guides.

Unclear Financial Obligations

Bulgaria was also made responsible for a part of the Turkish national debt, but just like the tribute payments, the exact share Bulgaria had to pay was never determined properly. This added more confusion to the already complicated financial relationship between the two countries.

Russian Supervision and Election Issues

Once the Great Powers had set the conditions, elections were organized in Bulgaria. These elections were supervised by Russian troops, who were present at voting stations. Unfortunately, their presence was not neutral. The Russian soldiers tried to influence voters through intimidation, persuasion, and empty promises. Their actions led to a vote that was not entirely free or fair.

A Strange and Confusing Constitution

At the same time, a new constitution was written by a clever Russian politician. The constitution was approved by the people, but most Bulgarians did not understand it. In fact, many experts believe that even today, no one fully understands the document. It was written in a vague and ambiguous way, possibly on purpose, to allow for flexibility and manipulation by those in power.

Prince Alexander of Battenberg Becomes Ruler

After much discussion and correspondence, the Bulgarian National Assembly finally selected Prince Alexander of Battenberg as their ruler. He was only 24 years old at the time and was serving as a lieutenant in the German army, under his great-uncle, Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany.

Prince Alexander had family ties to many of Europe’s royal houses. He was the nephew of the Russian Czar, and his brother, Prince Henry, was married to Queen Victoria’s daughter, Beatrice. Because of these family connections, many believed Alexander would be a neutral and fair ruler.

He was also well-liked by many. Known for his friendly personality, bravery, and honesty, Prince Alexander won the respect of both his people and European leaders.