After signing the Congress of Berlin Treaty, Prince Bismarck and Lord Beaconsfield believed they had successfully changed history and ensured peace in Europe.
Unforeseen Forces Changed Everything
Despite their confidence, several powerful forces began to undo their decisions:
The strong and independent spirit of the Bulgarian people Bulgaria Declares Independence.
The Ottoman Empire’s struggle to modernize.
The failure of Russian diplomats to understand Bulgaria’s situation.
Russia’s Control Over Bulgaria
Instead of supporting Bulgaria, Russian leaders treated the newly liberated country like it was under their control. Their harsh policies quickly made Bulgarians distrust Russia Private Tour Guide Ephesus.
Bulgaria Rejects Russian Influence
By 1882, Prince Alexander of Battenberg, Bulgaria’s first prince, cut ties with Russian control by openly supporting Bulgaria’s constitution, which Russia had tried to remove.
A Famous Russian Quote
Russian diplomat Prince Gortchakoff once said, “A constitution is like a beautiful woman; it exists only to be violated.” This reflected Russia’s attitude toward Bulgaria’s independence.
Bulgaria’s True Independence
Alexander’s bold decision marked the end of Russian rule in Bulgarian politics.
