Burgas Honors Victims of Communism: A Day of Remembrance and reflection
On February 1, 2024, the city of Burgas stood in solemn remembrance of the victims of the communist regime, marking the 80th anniversary of one of Bulgaria’s darkest chapters. The tribute took place at the monument dedicated to the victims, where wreaths and flowers were laid in a poignant display of respect and thankfulness.
The gathering, organized by the Democratic Community in Burgas, brought together representatives from public and party organizations. They gathered in the garden opposite the Court of Appeal to honor the memory of those who perished on February 1, 1945, when the so-called “People’s court” executed the nation’s elite. Among the victims were regents, deputies, ministers, generals, and other senior military and public figures, all condemned to death in a single day.
Stanimir Apostolov, Deputy Mayor of Budget and Finance and a representative of PP Code, was among those who paid their respects. He emphasized the importance of remembering this tragic event,stating,“Today is a day of tribute that must not be forgotten. Memory Day. Because the death sentences of the builders of modern Bulgaria were fulfilled. At the end of the 30s and the beginning of the 40s, Bulgaria was the strongest economy on the Balkan Peninsula. The personalities who have achieved this development have received their ‘thanks’ from people who have crawled from neighborhoods and from the criminal circles, driven by the Communist Party. In practice, these builders of modern Bulgaria have been destroyed for 24 hours.”
Dr. Evelina Stanisheva, the successor of Prof. Alexander Stanishev, also attended the ceremony. Prof. Stanishev, one of Bulgaria’s leading surgeons at the time and a former Minister of Health and the Interior, was among those executed. Dr. stanisheva shared a harrowing account of the events, saying, “Prof. Alexander Stanishev is the most famous, the best surgeon for his time. He is one of those around 100 people,along with Prince Cyril,regents,the entire last government and others. they release the official who had to determine the death of each of the shot and make him do the job. Sofia was then a handful of town and the elite were close friends, colleagues, relatives. He certifies the deaths of 99 people before shooting him himself.”
The annual commemoration in Burgas serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for Bulgaria’s progress and the importance of preserving their legacy.
Key Facts at a Glance
Table of Contents
| Event | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Date | February 1, 1945 |
| Location | Burgas, Bulgaria |
| victims | Regents, deputies, ministers, generals, senior military and public figures |
| organizers | Democratic Community in burgas |
| Key Attendees | Stanimir apostolov, Dr. Evelina Stanisheva |
This day of remembrance not only honors the victims but also serves as a call to action to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated. By reflecting on the past, we can build a future rooted in justice and respect for human dignity.
For more insights into Bulgaria’s history and its journey toward democracy, explore Bulgaria’s Democratic Evolution.Let us continue to honor the memory of those who sacrificed everything for a better Bulgaria. Share your thoughts on the importance of preserving history in the comments below.
Honoring History: A Conversation on Burgas’ Remembrance of Communist Victims
On February 1,2024,the city of Burgas commemorated the 80th anniversary of a tragic chapter in Bulgaria’s history—the execution of the nation’s elite by the communist regime in 1945. This day of remembrance not only honors the victims but also serves as a call to action to ensure such atrocities are never repeated. To delve deeper into the significance of this event, we sat down with Dr. Kalina Petrova,a renowned historian and expert on Bulgaria’s communist era,to discuss the historical context,the importance of preserving memory,and the lessons we can learn for the future.
The Historical Significance of February 1, 1945
senior Editor: Dr. Petrova, thank you for joining us. Could you start by explaining the historical significance of February 1, 1945, and why it remains such a pivotal moment in Bulgaria’s history?
Dr. Kalina Petrova: Thank you for having me. February 1, 1945, marks a dark day in Bulgaria’s history, when the so-called “People’s Court” executed nearly 100 of the nation’s elite in a single day. Among the victims were regents, deputies, ministers, generals, and other senior public figures who had contributed significantly to Bulgaria’s advancement. This event symbolized the brutal consolidation of communist power and the intentional eradication of those who posed a threat to the new regime. It was a calculated move to eliminate intellectual, political, and social leaders who could challenge the communists’ authority.
The Role of Memory in Shaping the Future
Senior Editor: The annual commemoration in Burgas emphasizes the importance of remembering this tragic event. Why is it crucial to preserve such memories, and how can they shape our future?
Dr. Kalina Petrova: Memory is a powerful tool for shaping the future. By remembering these events, we honor the sacrifices of those who fought for Bulgaria’s progress and ensure their legacy is not forgotten. Reflecting on the past also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of safeguarding democracy and human rights.When we understand the mistakes of history,we are better equipped to prevent them from recurring. These commemorations are not just about the past; they are a call to action for the present and future.
Personal Stories and Their Impact
Senior Editor: Personal stories, like that of Prof. Alexander Stanishev, bring a human element to historical events. how do these narratives help us connect with history on a deeper level?
Dr. Kalina Petrova: Personal stories humanize history. Prof. alexander Stanishev,as an example,was one of Bulgaria’s leading surgeons and a former Minister of Health and the interior. His story, along with those of other victims, allows us to see the individuals behind the statistics—their dreams, contributions, and the families they left behind. These narratives evoke empathy and make the consequences of such atrocities more tangible.they remind us that history is not just about dates and events but about people whose lives were irrevocably altered.
Lessons for Today’s society
Senior Editor: What lessons can modern society draw from this period, notably in the context of democracy and human rights?
Dr. Kalina Petrova: This period teaches us the fragility of democracy and the importance of vigilance in protecting it. The communist regime’s rise to power was marked by violence,suppression of dissent,and the eradication of opposition. Today, we must remain committed to upholding democratic values, fostering openness, and ensuring accountability in governance. It also underscores the importance of education in cultivating an informed and engaged citizenry that can resist authoritarian tendencies. Ultimately, this history is a reminder that freedom and justice are not given but must be actively defended.
Conclusion
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for your insightful reflections. as we conclude,what message would you like to leave our readers with about the importance of remembering events like the Burgas commemoration?
Dr. Kalina Petrova: My message is simple: we must never forget. Remembering these events honors the victims and ensures their sacrifices were not in vain. It also motivates us to build a future rooted in justice, respect, and human dignity. By reflecting on the past, we can work toward a society that values democracy, protects human rights, and strives for progress.let us continue to honor their memory and carry forward their legacy.
For more insights into Bulgaria’s history and its journey toward democracy, explore Bulgaria’s Democratic Evolution.
