Tsar Ferdinand

Tsar Ferdinand I was born in Vienna on 14 (26) February 1861. On his father's side he descended from a German ruling family, and on his mother's side from the kings of France. Historical studies often describe him as a controversial figure. On the one hand, he receives approval because he succeeded in securing Bulgaria's independence. On the other hand, the later period of his rule, Bulgaria's involvement in the First World War and its consequences for the country provoke disapproval of Ferdinand. He ascended the Bulgarian throne  in 1887 following a decision of the Grand National Assembly in Tarnovo. Initially he received the title of prince, since Bulgaria had been declared a principality following the Treaty of Berlin. Through his skilful policies and resourcefulness, Prince Ferdinand succeeded in preparing the way for Bulgarian independence and establishing the Third Bulgarian Kingdom on 22 September 1908, when he also received the title of tsar. 

The First World War broke out in 1914. Tsar Ferdinand I decided that Bulgaria should participate in the war on the side of the Central Powers, the Austro-German bloc. Despite the successes the Bulgarian state achieved during the war, on 30 September the country was nevertheless forced to announce its capitulation. In these circumstances, Tsar Ferdinand I was forced to abdicate, leaving the throne to his son, Prince Boris of Tarnovo (Tsar Boris III).