At a national conference marking the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising, Panagyurishte Mayor Zhelyazko Gagov addressed attendees, emphasizing that Bulgarians should strive to honor the legacy of the ordinary citizens who became national heroes. Organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) at the Panagyurishte History Museum, the event prompted reflection on national unity and pride in relation to the historical uprising. Gagov noted that the commemorations occurred during an election cycle, drawing a comparison between contemporary political figures and the revolutionaries of the past, a comparison he stated was “not in favour of our present day.” He argued that the anniversary should serve two primary functions: to establish a truly national commemoration, mirroring the aspirations of the original revolt, and to help the public reconnect with history as a source of national pride.
The mayor suggested that Bulgarians currently experience a “deficit of pride,” making the anniversary an opportunity to recall the achievements of their ancestors, who share the same national roots. He contrasted the youthful revolutionary spirit of 1876—when contemporaries were preparing for sacrifice—with the modern tendency to focus on social media. Gagov stressed that the heroes of the April Uprising were not legendary figures but real people.
He urged the public to understand their legacy on a human level, stating, “They are us,” and calling for Bulgarians to emulate the example set by those “ordinary people whom history made great.” This conference is part of a broader initiative by BTA, Bulgarian National Television, and Bulgarian National Radio to mark the 150th anniversary and is linked to the “14 Centuries of Bulgaria in Europe” initiative.
Topics: #april #uprising #heroes
It is important for current generations to reflect on and honor the sacrifices made by those historical figures.