Bulgaria: History

1878

Bulgaria is recognized as an autonomous state under the Treaty of San Stefan, which was signed by Russia and Turkey at the end of their war.

1908 Bulgaria declares itself an independent kingdom.

1918

During World War I, Bulgaria allies itself with Germany. Over 100,000 Bulgarian troops were killed, which was the most severe per capita loss if any nation during the war. 

1944

The Soviet Army invades German occupied Bulgaria near the end of World War II.

1954

Bulgaria communist party becomes one of the Soviet Union's most loyal allies. 

1990

The end of the communist regime liberalizes price controls in the market and led to an economic crisis in the country.

1997

Protests against the inflation in prices, rise in unemployment, and decrease in social service prompted the government to seek assistance from international financial institutions.

2007

Bulgaria becomes a member of the European Union, which aids the country in revitalizing its economy.

2008

European Commission permanently removes half of Bulgaria's aid following their government's failure to tackle corruption and organized crime.

2009

Bulgaria experiences energy shortages after their gas supply is cut due to Russia-Ukraine disputes. 

2013

Marin Raikov, the ambassador to France, is tasked with organizing elections after Prime Minister Borisov's resignation.

2018

The president's veto on anti-corruption legislation is overturned, giving a special unit the ability to address high-level abuse.