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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.

September 28, 1918 — Suppression of the Vladaya Rebellion

Government troops, supported by German military divisions stationed in Sofia, engaged and decisively defeated the mutinous soldiers of the Vladaya Rebellion near the village of Vladaya. The rebellion was crushed, resulting in hundreds of casualties and restoring order in the capital, though the political crisis persisted.

September 28, 1987 — Formation of the Ruse Committee

A group of prominent intellectuals and citizens met in Sofia to establish the Public Committee for the Environmental Protection of Ruse. The group protested against the severe chlorine pollution from a Romanian chemical plant across the Danube. This committee is widely regarded as the first organized dissident movement in communist Bulgaria, signaling the birth of civil society.

Explore more of Bulgaria’s story on Bronicable, including our Bulgaria From Above series and our guides to the best of Bulgaria.