A conference marking the 150th anniversary of the 1876 April Uprising was held at the History Museum in Panagyurishte. This event concluded a series of discussions organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) to foster dialogue surrounding the anniversary. Participants included BTA Director General Kiril Valchev, BNR Director General Milen Mitev, Prof.
Georgi Valchev, the Mayor of Panagyurishte, Zhelyazko Gagov, journalist Boyko Vassilev, and Assoc. Prof. Atanas Shopov.
BTA Director General Valchev stated that discussions about the April Uprising revive the memory of those who sacrificed for Bulgarian freedom. He noted that the talks spanned the four revolutionary districts—Veliko Tarnovo, Sliven, Vratsa, and Panagyurishte—as well as Ruse and Giurgiu. Valchev emphasized the importance of establishing consensus on long-term goals before tackling difficult steps.
BNR Director General Mitev stressed the media’s crucial role in shaping public opinion, asserting that the media must proactively connect with its audience. He cautioned that national pride must be cultivated responsibly, as history and pride are often manipulated. Prof.
Valchev urged viewing history as a living subject, moving beyond mere slogans. He identified three key lessons from 1876: the desire for self-determination, belief in the nation’s future, and the necessity of involving the younger generation. Panagyurishte Mayor Gagov called for the anniversary to prompt reflection on unity and national pride, urging Bulgarians to honor the legacy of the “ordinary people whom history made great.” Boyko Vassilev highlighted the lasting impact of journalists during the uprising, noting that the discussions link historical events to contemporary Bulgarian life.
Topics: #anniversary #april #uprising
It is important that these historical events are commemorated and discussed.