Every day in Bulgarian history holds a story worth remembering. In this recurring series, On This Day in Bulgaria, we look back at notable events, decisions, and milestones that happened on this date across the country’s history.
October 20, 1912 — The Great Powers Intervene
Austria-Hungary and Russia issued diplomatic notes urging the Balkan League to halt its advance and open peace negotiations with the Ottoman Empire. The Bulgarian army’s extraordinary progress through Thrace had alarmed Vienna and St Petersburg alike — the prospect of Bulgaria reaching Constantinople raised the Eastern Question to a new level of urgency. The great powers had no intention of allowing the Balkans to be settled entirely on the battlefield.
October 20, 1944 — Belgrade Liberated
Belgrade was liberated from German occupation by Soviet forces, Yugoslav Partisans, and Bulgarian troops fighting alongside them. The capture of the Yugoslav capital was a milestone in the Allied campaign through the Balkans and demonstrated the speed of the German collapse in south-eastern Europe. Bulgarian participation in the liberation of Belgrade — once an enemy capital — captured the extraordinary reversals of Bulgaria’s wartime position.
Explore more of Bulgaria’s story on Bronicable, including our Bulgaria From Above series and our guides to the best of Bulgaria.
