The historical figure of Stefan Stambolov takes on exceptional significance in the context of Bulgarian statehood, according to the expert assessment of Associate Professor Stefan Dechev. His role as a state leader is characterized by exceptional political pragmatism and strategic thinking.
A key moment in Stambolov's biography is the prevention of a potential civil war in 1886. This deed of his stands out as a primary contribution to the national security and political stability of the young Bulgarian state.
Dechev emphasizes Stambolov's exceptional importance as the chairman of the National Assembly, who, together with Prime Minister Petko Karavelov and Prince Alexander I, took responsibility for the Unification immediately after September 6, 1885. His primary priority was to guarantee state independence to the maximum possible extent during an extremely dynamic historical period.
The historian's scientific analysis covers an extremely wide time range - from 1895 to 2020, including diverse research sources: scientific literature, political analyses, memoirs, works of art, and film interpretations.
Stambolov's first biographer, Anton Strashimirov, despite his direct observations of the repressive state apparatus, defines the statesman as "remarkable". This nuanced view is also shared by contemporary researchers.
Assoc. Prof. Dechev definitively identifies Stambolov as the first Bulgarian statesman who permanently appears in history textbooks. His political vision is characterized by a radical reorientation - moving away from Russian political influence and consistently directing towards European state models.
The researcher emphasizes the need for a balanced and distanced view of historical figures, citing the famous writer Stefan Tsanev. This methodological approach allows for a more objective understanding of complex political processes.
Dechev's most essential conclusion is that "the sovereign state of Bulgaria is a creation of Stefan Stambolov". This assessment places the statesman as a key architect of modern Bulgarian statehood, whose political strategy permanently changed the national trajectory.
The commemoration of the 130th anniversary of Stambolov's murder will be marked by a scientific conference at the Central Military Club, where Assoc. Prof. Dechev will present his research observations.