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 regarding the significant historical period. Participants included BTA Director General Kiril Valchev, BNR Director General Milen Mitev, Prof.
Georgi Valchev, Panagyurishte Mayor Zhelyazko Gagov, journalist Boyko Vassilev, and Assoc. Prof. Atanas Shopov.
BTA Director General Valchev stated that discussions about the April Uprising help preserve 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 that a key takeaway from these discussions is the necessity of establishing overarching goals before tackling difficult implementation steps.
BNR Director General Mitev stressed the media’s vital role in shaping public opinion, asserting that the media must proactively connect with the public. He cautioned that national pride must be cultivated responsibly, as historical narratives can be manipulated. Prof.
Valchev urged viewing history as an active process, urging a move away from mere slogans toward understanding the desire of the Bulgarian people in 1876 to control their own destiny. Mayor Gagov suggested the anniversary should prompt reflection on unity, noting that the heroes of the April Uprising were ordinary people. Boyko Vassilev highlighted the lasting impact of journalists during the uprising, underscoring that the events raise enduring questions relevant to modern Bulgarian public life.
Topics: #anniversary #april #uprising
