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The Bulgarian National Struggle in Macedonia

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The Bulgarian National Struggle in Macedonia

Evidence of Bulgarian Religious Life

During the time of Ottoman rule, the Bulgarian people in Macedonia gave clear proof of their national identity through religion. In what is now Serbian Macedonia, there were 677 churches served by 299 priests. These were not only places of worship but also symbols of unity, testifying to the strong corporate consciousness of Bulgarians in religious matters. Even under Turkish control, the people worked hard to keep their faith alive in their own language and traditions Small Nations and Their Right to Freedom.

Bulgarian Education Under Ottoman Rule

Religion was not the only field where Bulgarians showed their unity. Education played a central role as well. In the same Serbian territory, there were 596 schools, staffed by 1,005 teachers, and attended by 36,000 students. This was not a small achievement under the difficult conditions of Ottoman rule. It showed that the people valued learning in their own language and were willing to support schools despite poverty and oppression.

In what later became Greek territory, similar evidence can be found. There were 300 churches with 299 priests, as well as 340 schools with 589 teachers and 19,000 students. These numbers prove that the Bulgarians were deeply rooted in both their religion and education throughout Macedonia.

Questions About Serbian and Greek Claims

If the population of Macedonia had really been Serbian or Greek, why did Serbia and Greece not provide for their religious and educational needs during Ottoman times? Why did they not build schools, train priests, or support the local people? The fact that Bulgarians themselves carried this burden is strong proof of their identity Turkey Sightseeing.

If the people had been satisfied with the Greek bishops and priests imposed on them by the Ottoman authorities, why did they fight so hard and so long to free themselves? Their struggle finally succeeded with the creation of the Bulgarian Exarchate, which gave them their own spiritual and educational independence.

The Revolutionary Movements

Another important fact is that all the revolutionary movements in Macedonia against Turkish rule were led by Bulgarians. Greeks and Serbs often opposed them. The Ilinden Uprising of 1903 ended in tragedy when thousands of Bulgarians were massacred by the Turks. It was not Greeks or Serbs who were killed, but Bulgarians.

The massacre left behind many orphans, and the Bulgarian Orphanage in Bitola was created to protect them. Yet when Serbia later took control, it closed the orphanage and left the children without support.

Greek Policies in Macedonia

The same pattern appeared in Greek Macedonia. If that land had truly been Greek, why did the Carnegie Commission report that the Greeks burned 160 Bulgarian villages and destroyed at least 16,000 Bulgarian homes? Such acts show that the Greeks saw the people as Bulgarians, not Greeks, and treated them as enemies.

If the wars against Turkey had truly been wars of liberation, why did the so-called liberators—Serbia and Greece—seize all the Bulgarian churches, expel the bishops and priests, and close the Bulgarian schools? Why was teaching in the Bulgarian language forbidden?

One striking example is the Bulgarian Gymnasium in Salonica, which had been a center of culture and learning for Southern Macedonia under Turkish rule. After the Greek takeover, it was closed, even though it had been one of the most important institutions for Bulgarian education.

The evidence from both religious and educational life clearly shows the Bulgarian character of Macedonia during Ottoman times. The people proved their unity through churches, schools, uprisings, and sacrifices. The closing of their institutions by Greeks and Serbs after liberation reveals not a natural union but a forced suppression of their identity. History, numbers, and the testimony of international observers all point to the same truth: the people of Macedonia were, and felt themselves to be, Bulgarians.

Small Nations and Their Right to Freedom

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Small Nations and Their Right to Freedom

Mr. Asquith’s View on Nationalities

According to Mr. Asquith, small nations should be valued and respected not only because of their size but because of three main qualities: history, life, and corporate consciousness. These are the true measures by which a people and their claim to land or independence should be judged.

The Meaning of History

When Mr. Asquith spoke of history, he did not mean the victories and conquests of powerful empires. If that were the case, then Rome would still have the right to rule most of Europe and Western Asia, simply because it once did. Instead, the history that matters is the history that has shaped the present desires, identity, and feelings of the people living in a land Sightseeing Turkey.

For example, some Serbian leaders have argued that Macedonia should belong to them because of the time of Tzar Dušan, who ruled in the 14th century. But even if we go further back, in 1018 the Bulgarian Tzar Samuel ruled over not only Macedonia but also much of present-day Serbia. Clearly, if history is taken too far back, it becomes confusing and contradictory.

The Time of Turkish Rule

For the people of the Balkans, the most important part of their shared history is the long centuries of Ottoman rule. The Turks came as conquerors and remained as oppressors. They often said that they came “in blood,” and in blood they were eventually driven out. The peoples who suffered under this oppression for centuries, and who finally freed themselves, gained the right to live on and govern the lands they reclaimed.

Life and Corporate Consciousness

Still, history alone is not enough. The true right to rule should be based on the wishes of the people living in each territory. This is where the ideas of life and corporate consciousness come in. Life refers to the vitality and energy of a nation, while corporate consciousness refers to the shared identity, traditions, and common purpose of its people Travel in Greece Comforts and Challenges.

The Bulgarian Example

During the last century, the Bulgarian people showed their strength of life and unity. They struggled for decades to free themselves from the religious and educational dominance of Greek bishops and priests. Their fight succeeded with the creation of the independent Bulgarian Church, headed by the Exarch.

The Slavic population in Macedonia fully joined in this struggle. By demanding religious and educational freedom, they proved their close connection to the Bulgarian nation and identity. This unity is clear evidence of their corporate consciousness, the shared belief that they belong to the same people and the same cause.

The rights of nations in the Balkans cannot be decided only by looking at the victories of kings or emperors from centuries ago. They must be judged by the living spirit of the people today—their shared struggles, their unity, and their desire for freedom. The Bulgarians, through their fight for independence in education and religion, gave strong proof of their vitality and national consciousness, and Macedonia was deeply part of that struggle.

Travel in Greece Comforts and Challenges

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Travel in Greece Comforts and Challenges

A Land for the Adventurous

Greece is not a country for those who expect luxury and comfort. The natural scenery is far more appealing than the hotels or public conveniences. While the climate is healthy and pleasant, visitors who come looking for modern comfort often find the facilities lacking. For travelers with a spirit of adventure, however, Greece offers rewards that far outweigh the inconveniences.

The Beauty of Nature

What Greece lacks in comfort, it makes up for in natural beauty. No other part of Europe has such variety of landscapes, richness of color, and striking views. The hillsides and valleys are filled with abundant foliage, bright flowers, and charming groves. In the countryside, the daily life of the people adds to the atmosphere. Their manners, customs, and traditional dress remain colorful and picturesque. Unlike many other parts of Europe, rural Greece has preserved its older ways of living, relatively untouched by the advances of modern civilization The Bulgarian National Struggle in Macedonia.

Accommodation and Food

Hotels in Athens

Athens is the only city where hotels are considered tolerable by international standards. Travelers who remain in the capital can find acceptable lodging, though not always of the highest quality.

Travel in the Interior

Those who wish to see the interior of the country must prepare carefully. It is advisable to carry personal provisions and bedding, as inns outside Athens are often primitive and unclean. Even short day trips into the countryside require planning. Visitors commonly bring lunch baskets with them, since the food available at small inns may not be safe or pleasant to eat.

Transportation in Greece

Roads and Railways

Railway services are still very limited in Greece, and travelers cannot rely on them to reach every site of interest. The roads, with some exceptions, are rough and difficult to travel. Improvements are being made, and in recent years it has become possible to reach certain historical centers by carriage. Only a few years ago, horseback or walking were the only options for exploring most of the country, similar to the experience of traveling in the Holy Land Private Turkey Tours.

Travel Conditions

Even today, visitors to many of Greece’s most important historical places must endure some discomfort. Dirt, poor smells, and basic conditions are common. Yet despite these challenges, the journey is worthwhile. The sense of history, the beauty of the landscapes, and the cultural richness of Greece more than compensate for the hardships.

The Rewards of the Journey

Traveling in Greece requires patience and endurance, but it offers experiences unlike anywhere else in Europe. For those willing to accept inconvenience, Greece provides a journey into the past, with scenery of extraordinary beauty and people whose traditions remain strong. The traveler may not find luxury, but they will find inspiration, history, and memories that last a lifetime.

King Michael’s First Reign

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King Michael’s First Reign

A Modern Reformer

Michael, a member of the Obrenovitch family, became King of Servia and proved to be a wise and progressive leader. He was known for being fair, forward-thinking, and liberal. He not only continued the reforms that had been started by Karageorge, the national hero, but also brought in many modern improvements that Servia had never seen before.

He worked hard to modernize the country. Michael built new roads and highways, which helped connect the towns and cities. He also constructed public buildings, such as schools, parks, an opera house, and an art gallery. These projects made the capital more beautiful and gave people access to culture and education. However, all these improvements required a lot of money Karageorge Builds a New Servia.

Peasant Resistance and a New King

The peasants, who made up the majority of the population and had strong political influence, were not happy. They saw these changes as “German ideas”—too foreign and expensive. Many felt that Michael was moving too far away from traditional ways. Because of this dissatisfaction, the people forced Michael to leave power.

To replace him, the people chose Alexander Karageorgovitch, the son of Karageorge, as their new king. Alexander had a humble background. He had served quietly in the Servian army and was known for being modest, calm, and reserved. Once he became king, Alexander continued Michael’s policies but did so in a less flashy and more practical way.

Years of Peace Under Alexander

Under King Alexander Karageorgovitch, Servia experienced peace and made good progress. He encouraged arts and industry, and life for ordinary people improved. But not everyone was satisfied. A group of political agitators, supported by the Obrenovitch family, began to cause trouble again. They eventually gained control of the Servian parliament.

This parliament demanded that Alexander step down. In his place, they called back old King Milos, who had been living in exile in Austria Guided Tours Sofia.

Milos Returns—And Fails Again

Milos ruled again for two years before his death. Sadly, he believed that the people had brought him back to support his earlier harsh and autocratic style of ruling. His second reign was even worse than his first, and many were relieved when his rule ended.

Michael’s Second Reign A Wiser Monarch

After Milos died, Michael returned to the throne. During his time in exile, he had traveled around Europe, learning how modern governments worked. He studied languages, politics, and the lives of other nations. This education and experience, combined with his natural intelligence, made him a much better leader than before.

In his second reign, Michael ruled with wisdom and caution. He became a safe and thoughtful king, respected by his people and admired by other nations. His return marked a period of renewed hope and stability in Servia’s history.

This period in Servian history shows the constant power struggle between the Karageorgovitch and Obrenovitch families, but also highlights the importance of wise leadership and public support. Both Michael and Alexander tried to bring progress, but their success depended not only on their ideas but on how ready the people were to accept change.

Karageorge Builds a New Servia

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Karageorge Builds a New Servia

After successfully driving out the Turks, Karageorge (Black George) established a liberal monarchy in Servia. He knew that he lacked formal education and experience, so he immediately focused on building a stronger, smarter nation. His first step was to create a free public school system in every province. He also established a university in Belgrade, the capital.

In addition to improving education, Karageorge brought important changes to Servia’s government. He set up courts of justice, reduced taxes, punished corruption, and fought against immoral behavior. He carefully organized the government into departments, acting with the wisdom of a skilled and experienced statesman Guided Sofia Tour.

A Leader Ahead of His Time

Although Karageorge had great vision and worked hard to improve his country, many of the people were not ready for such rapid change. He moved too fast for them to follow, and this caused problems. His enemies gathered against him, and many critics stood in the way of his reforms.

Feeling angry and disappointed by the lack of public support, Karageorge made a bold decision. After ruling for nine years, he gave up the crown and left the throne. Despite this, he remained an important historical figure as the founder of the Karageorgovitch dynasty, one of the two royal families that would fight for control of Servia for years to come.

The Rise of Milos Obren

The rival of Karageorge was also a man of humble beginnings. He was the son of a house servant who worked for a wealthy and powerful family named Obren. This man’s father, Tescho, had no last name—as was common among Balkan peasants. When the son grew famous, he adopted the name of the noble family his father had served, calling himself Milos Obren, founder of the Obrenovitch dynasty Understanding the Political Situation in Servia.

When Karageorge stepped down, Milos was the most powerful man left in Belgrade. A Turkish pasha soon invaded Servia and took control of the city. He made Milos the governor of the province, a position that gave him more influence and ambition.

Betrayal and a Lasting Feud

Worried that Karageorge might return to power, Milos made a treacherous decision. He betrayed Karageorge to the Turkish authorities and arranged his murder. Milos hired a killer named Vuica to assassinate Karageorge while he was sleeping in a mountain hut. This act of betrayal started the bitter and long-lasting rivalry between the two royal families: the Karageorgovitch and the Obrenovitch.

Milos Takes the Throne

Eventually, Milos became king of Servia. However, his leadership style was very different from Karageorge’s. While Karageorge had ruled with simplicity and a sense of justice, Milos ruled as an autocrat, or absolute ruler. Over time, the people became tired of his harsh rule. Public anger forced him to abdicate, and his eldest son, Milan III, became king.

Unfortunately, Milan III died just a month later, and his brother Michael then took the throne. This continued the cycle of political unrest and shifting power that marked much of Servian history.

The story of Servia’s political struggles cannot be told without understanding the feud between the Karageorgovitch and Obrenovitch families. One was founded by a national hero who valued justice and progress; the other by a cunning politician who rose through betrayal and ambition. Their rivalry shaped the future of Servia and influenced its politics for generations.

Understanding the Political Situation in Servia

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Understanding the Political Situation in Servia

To understand the current political situation in Servia (now known as Serbia), we need to look back at the country’s history. Servia has long been a source of political interest and surprises for Europe. Much of the trouble in Servia can be traced to a long-standing conflict between two powerful peasant families. This feud has influenced the country’s politics for generations.

Servia Under Turkish Rule

At the start of the 19th century, Servia was a province of the Ottoman Empire. It was governed by a Turkish official named Hadji Mustapha, who was known for being fair and kind. Unlike many rulers of that time, he treated his Christian subjects with respect. Because of his just rule, Servia experienced peace and prosperity during his time in power King Michael’s First Reign.

However, a powerful group within the Turkish army called the Janizaries did not like Hadji Mustapha’s liberal policies. They were especially angry that he tried to protect the Christian population from their cruelty and greed. The Janizaries accused him of being too friendly with Christians and claimed he had betrayed the Turkish cause. They trapped him inside a fortress (the citadel) and killed him.

Massacres and the Rise of a Hero

After Mustapha’s death, the Janizaries took control. For about four or five years, they ruled Servia with fear and violence. Worried that the local population might rebel, they decided to eliminate anyone who could become a leader. As a result, thousands of people were brutally killed, and bloodshed spread across the land.

During this dark time, one man escaped to the mountains. His name was George Petrovitch, better known in history as Kara George (or “Black George”), due to his dark skin and black hair. He was a swineherd—someone who looked after pigs—but he would go on to become the greatest hero in Servian history.

Kara George From Swineherd to King

Kara George led the people of Servia in a successful fight for independence from Turkish rule. Though he could not read or write and was completely illiterate, he had great wisdom, leadership skills, and a strong sense of justice. As king, he used a special mark or symbol in place of a signature on official documents.

Kara George was known for being honest and brave. His sense of justice was so strong that he allowed his own brother to be executed when he disobeyed government laws—setting an example that no one was above the law Guided Sofia Tours.

A Humble Leader

Even as king, Kara George continued to dress like a peasant. He said this reflected his simple lifestyle and lack of formal education better than a crown and royal robes. He lived modestly, often cooking his own meals in the palace, just as he had done when he was a pig herder in the mountains.

Kara George’s rise from a poor swineherd to a national hero shows how powerful leadership, courage, and justice can change the future of a nation. His humble lifestyle, strong character, and unwavering dedication to Servia’s freedom left a lasting mark on the country’s history. Understanding his story is essential to grasping the roots of Servia’s ongoing political struggles.

The Kidnapping of Miss Ellen M. Stone

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The Kidnapping of Miss Ellen M. Stone

The kidnapping of Miss Ellen M. Stone, an American missionary, and her companion, Mrs. Katarina Stephanova Tsilka, shocked the world in 1901. The two women were captured on September 3, 1901, and held for five months and twenty days. They were finally released on February 23, 1902. Miss Stone represented the American Board of Foreign Missions, and Mrs. Tsilka was the wife of Rev. Gregory Tsilka.

Their kidnapping drew international attention to the ongoing unrest in the Macedonian region, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. The kidnappers hoped that the incident would push the United States and European countries to intervene in the region’s problems. However, although the case caused great public interest, no major foreign powers took direct action A Harvard Graduate from a Humble Background.

An Attempt to Gain Global Attention

The main purpose of the kidnappers—who were Macedonian revolutionaries—was to make the world notice the chaos and lawlessness in Rumelia (a part of Macedonia under Ottoman control). At the time, the area was full of political instability, banditry, and violence. The revolutionaries believed that kidnapping well-known foreigners would force the global powers to get involved in Macedonia’s struggle for independence.

While their plan did not lead to political intervention, it succeeded in gaining public attention. Newspapers around the world reported on Miss Stone’s situation, and many people became aware of the dangers missionaries and other foreigners faced in the region.

Miss Stone A Respected Missionary in the Balkans

Miss Ellen M. Stone was widely known and respected throughout the Balkans. She had been working there as a missionary ever since Bulgaria became independent after the Russo-Turkish War ended in 1878. Her main base was in Salonika (now Thessaloniki, in modern Greece), a city rich in Christian history. It is the same place to which St. Paul wrote his letters to the Thessalonians in the Bible.

Miss Stone worked closely with Rev. John H. House from Painesville, Ohio, who was one of the first missionaries in the area. Together, they led the mission’s efforts in the region. Miss Stone focused on educational work, helping to open schools, train local teachers, and support students. She often traveled by horseback through remote villages to oversee this work Sofia Day Tours.

Her Words on the Dangers

Miss Stone herself spoke of the dangers she faced. In her own words, she said:

“During the frequent missionary tours which I have made in Macedonia during the last twenty years and more, I have often been conscious of danger from the brigands who have long infested that country. Thrice before my capture I had come into personal contact with them.”

This statement shows her bravery and dedication. Despite the risks, she continued her work to educate and uplift local communities.

The kidnapping of Miss Stone was not just a dramatic event—it was also a symbol of the complex political struggles in the Balkans at the beginning of the 20th century. Her story shows the courage of missionaries, the dangerous conditions in the region, and the desperate attempts of revolutionaries to make the world notice their fight for freedom.

A Harvard Graduate from a Humble Background

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A Harvard Graduate from a Humble Background

Another inspiring example of American influence in Bulgaria is Stoyan Kristoff Vatralsky. He was the son of a poor Bulgarian shepherd, yet he achieved great success through education. Vatralsky first studied at the missionary school in Samakov, where he was motivated to aim higher. That school helped him dream of going to the United States for a better education. His dream came true, and he graduated from Harvard University in 1894.

While at Harvard, he was chosen as the class poet, a great honor that shows his talent for writing and public speaking. After graduation, he stayed in the United States for a while, working in literature and public lectures. His goal was always to return to Bulgaria and use what he had learned to help improve education and cultural life in his homeland. Mr. Vatralsky represents what a young Bulgarian with ambition and the right guidance can accomplish Daily Sofia Tours.

Russia’s Powerful Presence in Bulgaria Mr. Bakhmeteff

In modern Bulgaria, Russia has a strong political presence, and its highest representative in the country is Mr. Bakhmeteff, a highly skilled and experienced diplomat. He is known for his intelligence, although he often hides it behind a calm and unemotional appearance.

Mr. Bakhmeteff is very familiar with the United States, having spent a lot of time in Washington, D.C. His wife, Mme. Bakhmeteff, is an American. She is the daughter of General Edward F. Beale, who was a close friend and former roommate of U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant during their time at West Point Military Academy.

Mme. Bakhmeteff A Bridge Between Two Worlds

Mme. Bakhmeteff is not only intelligent but also kind-hearted and active in charity work. While she supports her husband’s mission to keep Bulgaria close to Russia, she is truly American in her lifestyle and values. She has brought many important social improvements to Bulgaria American-Educated Leaders in Bulgaria.

Thanks to her efforts:

A free hospital was created with the support of the Czarina of Russia, who sent a team of nurses from a Russian religious order.

The Red Cross Society was introduced to Bulgaria.

A training school for nurses was started, with the help of many high-ranking women in society.

She also helped improve schools and made charity work popular among upper-class Bulgarian women.

Influence Behind the Scenes

While Mme. Bakhmeteff focuses on helping society, her husband plays an important role in politics. He is so powerful that the Bulgarian Prime Minister consults him before making big decisions. In fact, Mr. Bakhmeteff’s advice is often treated as a direct command from the Russian Czar. His quiet but firm control ensures that Bulgaria stays aligned with Russian interests.

Through individuals like Stoyan Vatralsky, Mr. Bakhmeteff, and Mme. Bakhmeteff, we see how education, diplomacy, and charitable work have shaped Bulgaria’s modern history. Whether through American schools or Russian diplomacy, these figures have left a deep mark on the country’s political and social landscape.

American-Educated Leaders in Bulgaria

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American-Educated Leaders in Bulgaria

It is a pleasant surprise to see that in this distant country, Bulgaria, there are men and women who studied in the United States and understand American values and institutions. These people are now playing important roles in Bulgarian society.

A Pioneer for Women Madame Ivan B. Kassuroff

One of the most respected women in Bulgaria is Madame Ivan B. Kassuroff. She was a student of Miss Stone, an American missionary. Mme. Kassuroff is famous for being the first Bulgarian woman to enter the world of business. At that time, it was very unusual for a woman to work in business, and her actions went against the traditions of the country.

Many people were shocked at first. However, Mme. Kassuroff’s strong character, intelligence, and determination helped her succeed. Over time, she earned the respect and admiration of everyone around her. Today, she is seen as a role model, and many other women are now following her example. Thanks to her, the idea of women working in business has become more accepted, even in a society that used to be very conservative.

Now, when Mme. Kassuroff walks down the street, people greet her with respect and even take off their hats to her—a clear sign of honor in Bulgaria.

A Businesswoman by Circumstance

Mme. Kassuroff did not choose her career entirely by choice. Her husband owned the main bookstore in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. When he died in 1874, no one was left to run the business. Instead of closing it or selling it at a loss, she decided to take over.

Since then, she has managed the bookstore herself, showing great skill and business sense. Her shop is now well-known and even supplies the government with books and stationery. It is called the “Court Book Store” and is located directly across from the royal palace The Kidnapping of Miss Ellen M. Stone.

Her life shows what a woman can achieve when she has access to education and new ideas. She is a powerful example of how American missionaries helped bring positive change to the lives of women in Eastern Europe.

Another American-Educated Woman Mrs. Popoff

Mrs. Popoff, the wife of the Protestant pastor in Sofia, also studied in America. She graduated from the Painesville Seminary in Ohio. Like Mme. Kassuroff, she has brought American ideas into Bulgarian homes. She has helped inspire women to be more independent and to dream bigger.

Her husband, Reverend Marko N. Popoff, also studied in the United States. He went to Hamilton College and studied theology at Auburn Seminary in New York. In total, he spent eleven years in America. Today, he is known as a well-educated speaker and respected church leader. His church is always full, and he is a popular public speaker.

The stories of Mme. Kassuroff and Mrs. Popoff show how education and exposure to new ideas can bring big changes. These women have helped shape modern Bulgaria and opened doors for future generations. Their lives are proof of the powerful impact that American education and missionary efforts had on the development of Bulgarian society, especially for women City Tour Sofia.

Students from Across the Region

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Students from Across the Region

Students at Robert College come from many different countries. They represent places across Asia Minor, European Turkey, Greece, and the Balkan States. The largest group of students comes from Constantinople and its surrounding areas. After that, most students come from Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, but nearly every nationality is represented at the college Leadership and Trustees in New York .

In 1902, the number of students by nationality included:

Greeks – 127 students, Armenians – 108 students, Bulgarians – 51 students

Other students came from Turkey, Jewish communities (Israelites), Romanians, Austrians, French, Russians, English, Americans, Assyrians, Georgians, Persians, and Levantines.

Parents of these students belong to almost every religion found in Constantinople. They are willing to put aside religious concerns to give their children the educational opportunities that Robert College offers.

Challenges for Muslim Students

The Turkish government’s policies make it very hard—sometimes even impossible—for Muslim (Moslem) students to attend the college. Because of this, no student is openly Muslim. In fact, it might be dangerous or even deadly for a student to say he is a follower of Islam while enrolled at the college.

There are suspicions that some Muslim students register under different religious identities to attend. When young men from far parts of Turkey arrive to study, they are sometimes arrested or imprisoned as soon as they enter the city.

According to Dr. Washburn, the college president, the minister of police usually acts reasonably. If the students prove they have come for honest educational purposes, the police often release them into the care of the college treasurer, who is then held responsible for their conduct.

A Student’s Ordeal in 1901

In 1901, one student was detained for two months on charges of bringing in dangerous printed material. The police claimed he had seditious literature, but all they found in his luggage were two pieces of music, which could be bought at any regular music store in Constantinople. Still, the authorities pressed charges, and his father had to pay a large sum of money to secure his release.

Successful Graduates and Their Influence

Graduates of Robert College hold important positions throughout the Eastern world. Many serve in government roles in Bulgaria, Romania, and other nearby countries.

At one point, four alumni of Robert College were ministers in the Bulgarian government. Among them was the late Mr. Stoiloff, who was known as the most capable statesman in Bulgaria after the death of Stambouloff. He served as Prime Minister from 1894 to 1901 Private Sofia Tour.

A School That Shapes Leaders

Despite political challenges, Robert College continues to educate young leaders from many nations. Its graduates are respected across the region for their intelligence, leadership, and education, proving the lasting impact of this unique institution.

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