Situated on the eastern coast of the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is a small nation with a land area of about 110,550 square kilometers, or 42,823 square miles, which is slightly bigger than Tennessee. The country has a diverse landscape, featuring plains in the north (the Danubian Plateau) and the center (the Thracian Plain) and two major mountain ranges that run from west to east—the Balkans in the middle and the Rhodopes in the south. The Danube River, which forms the northern border of Bulgaria, separates it from Romania. Bulgaria borders Serbia and Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east.
In 1990, Bulgaria had a population of around 8.9 million people, of which two-thirds lived in urban areas. The capital city, Sofia, had more than one million inhabitants. According to the 1991 census, ethnic Bulgarians made up 85.3 percent of the population, followed by ethnic Turks with 8.5 percent, Gypsies with 2.6 percent, Macedonians with 2.5 percent, and Armenians, Russians, and Greeks with less than one percent each. The majority of the population, about 85 percent, adhered to the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Other religious groups included Muslims (13 percent), Jews (0.8 percent), Roman Catholics (0.5 percent), and Protestants. After the fall of Communism, which was backed by the Soviet Union, in late 1989, Bulgarians experienced a revival of religious practice and expression.
The official language of the state is Bulgarian. Turkish, which faced several periods of suppression under the Communist regime, is the main language of about eight percent of the citizens. The Bulgarian flag consists of three horizontal stripes of white, green, and red colors.
Bulgaria's principal agricultural areas—the Danubian and Maritsa plains—produce abundant crops of corn, tomatoes, tobacco, wheat, barley, grapes, sugar beets, oil-seeds, potatoes, and soybeans. The renowned product of the arid and sandy Tundzha Valley, also known as the "Valley of the Roses," is the attar, or essence, of roses, which makes Bulgaria the world's leading exporter of this commodity.
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| A map of the United States with Bulgarian flags in each state that has a population of Bulgarian Americans |
History of Bulgarian Americans
The history of Bulgarian Americans can be traced back to the mid 19th century, when some Bulgarians immigrated to the United States. They tended to settle in areas where there were other Slavic communities, mainly in the Midwest or Northeast. A study by David Cassens explored the 'The Bulgarian Colony of Southwestern Illinois 1900-1920'. A famous Bulgarian author, Aleko Konstantinov, wrote a book called To Chicago and Back (Bulgarian: "До Чикаго и назад"), which was published in 1894. The book mainly described his visit to a trade fair in Chicago, and not the experience of emigration.
Bulgarian Americans are descendants of the ancient Thracians, who lived in the eastern Balkans for many centuries. They were conquered by various empires, such as the Persians, the Macedonians, and the Romans. Thrace became part of the Byzantine Empire, which ruled the region until the sixth century A.D. At that time, Slavic tribes migrated to the area and assimilated the Thracian population.
In the seventh century A.D., a nomadic people called the Bulgars arrived in the Balkans and merged with the Slavs. They established the First Bulgarian Empire, which was one of the most powerful states in medieval Europe. The Bulgarians adopted Christianity and developed their own alphabet and culture. The empire collapsed in the 11th century, after being invaded by the Byzantines and the Crusaders.
The Second Bulgarian Empire emerged in the 12th century, and reached its peak in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was a center of arts, literature, and commerce, and resisted the Mongol and Ottoman invasions. However, the empire declined in the 15th century, and was finally conquered by the Ottoman Turks in 1396. Bulgaria remained under Ottoman rule for nearly five centuries, during which it suffered oppression, exploitation, and assimilation.
The Bulgarian national revival began in the 18th and 19th centuries, as a movement of cultural and political awakening. The Bulgarians sought to preserve their language, religion, and traditions, and to gain autonomy or independence from the Ottoman Empire. Several uprisings and wars took place, with the support of Russia and other European powers. Bulgaria achieved partial independence in 1878, and full independence in 1908.
In the 20th century, Bulgaria went through several political and social changes, such as the Balkan Wars, the World Wars, the Communist regime, and the democratic transition. Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007, and is a member of NATO and other international organizations. Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic, with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The current president is Rumen Radev, and the current prime minister is Boyko Borisov.
THE ORIGINS OF THE BULGARIAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY
The United States did not attract many Bulgarian settlers until the early twentieth century, when a massive wave of immigration from southern and eastern Europe changed the country's ethnic composition. The first Bulgarian immigrants on record were Protestants who came to America in the mid-nineteenth century to study at American universities, as Nikolay G. Altankov writes in The Bulgarian-Americans, a 1979 book published by Ragusan Press. American Protestant organizations sponsored their travel, hoping to train them as missionaries for Bulgaria. Some of them did go back to their homeland to preach, but others decided to stay in America and build their lives there.
Among the pioneers of the Bulgarian-American community were Ilya S. Iovchev, who came in 1870 and worked as a journalist, and Hristo Balabanov, who arrived in 1876, obtained an M.D., and opened a medical practice in Tacoma, Washington, in 1890.
THE PATTERNS OF BULGARIAN IMMIGRATION
Bulgarians have a long history of migration, dating back to the Byzantine era, as a response to political unrest. Every failed uprising against the Turks in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries triggered large-scale movements of Bulgarians to Russia, the Ukraine, Moldavia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, and other Balkan countries. Bulgarian diaspora communities emerged and flourished in some of these places. Nowadays, it is estimated that there are two million ethnic Bulgarians living outside their country, with most of them residing in Russia and Romania.
The United States became a major destination for Bulgarian immigrants between 1903 and 1910. During this time, around 50,000 Bulgarians from Macedonia, which was under Turkish rule, and from the independent Bulgarian state, or "the kingdom," came to America. The main reason for the Bulgarians from "the kingdom" to leave was economic: they faced overpopulation and unemployment in their regions of origin. The Macedonian-Bulgarians had another motive to emigrate: the violent suppression of the St. Ilya's Day revolt of 1903 by the Turkish army, which devastated three Macedonian provinces and killed 5,000 rebels and civilians. About 330,000 Macedonians who lost their homes fled to Bulgaria. Soon after, the biggest wave of Bulgarian and Macedonian Bulgarian emigration started.
Political factors continued to affect the trends of emigration from Bulgaria after 1910. The loss of territory as a result of the Balkan Wars and the First World War forced between 400,000 and 700,000 ethnic Bulgarians from Aegean Thrace, Macedonia, and Dobrudzha to move to Bulgaria proper. Their influx put pressure on the scarce economic resources of the country and prompted many Bulgarians to look for work elsewhere.
Bulgarian immigrants in the early twentieth century faced many difficulties in reaching the United States. A peasant would have to sell or mortgage his property, or borrow money at a high interest rate from a steamship agent, to afford the transatlantic journey. This meant that he had no option to return. Some immigrants started their trips at ports on the Danube River, going to Vienna and then taking trains to various European ports (Hamburg, Le Havre, Trieste), where they waited for a week or more in detention camps before getting on a ship to New York. Others left from the Greek ports of Piraeus or Salonika. Regardless of their departure points, most immigrants endured the month-long ocean voyage in steerage, in the lower part of the ship, where the conditions were crowded, dirty, and unhealthy. Many Bulgarians tried to avoid the strict entrance exams at Ellis Island, the immigration station in New York City, by entering the country illegally, through Canada or Mexico.
Bulgarian immigration never reached the levels of immigration from other southern or eastern European countries, and in 1924, the National Origins Immigration Act reduced the number of Bulgarians who could enter the United States to only 100 a year. From 1924 until the abolition of the national origins quota restrictions in 1965, only 7,660 Bulgarians were officially admitted to the United States. Historians estimate that thousands more settled in America during this period, entering illegally via Canada or Mexico or with non-Bulgarian passports issued by the country of their last residence rather than the country of their birth. Many Bulgarians, it is assumed, have been classified as Turks, Greeks, Serbs, Romanians, Russians, or Yugoslavs. At one point, U.S. immigrations statistics did not separate Bulgarians from Serbs and Montenegrins. For these reasons, the actual number of people of Bulgarian descent living in the United States is believed to be much higher than the 1990 U. S. Census figure—slightly over 70,000 instead of the official 20,894.
The 1924 quota restrictions changed not only the size of Bulgarian immigration but also its nature. Most of the immigrants of the interwar years (1919-1939) were women and children who came to join their husbands and fathers who had already settled in America. Otherwise, immigration from Bulgaria during these years was very low.
The emergence of the Communist state in 1945 triggered a new wave of immigration. Unlike the earlier immigrants, the postwar emigres were mainly political refugees and professionals who left Bulgaria with no intention of returning. Thousands escaped after the Soviet invasion of Bulgaria in 1944. Following the withdrawing German troops to Germany or Austria, some Bulgarians stayed in western European countries; others entered the United States under the Displaced Persons Act of 1947. A few became Americans under the authority of a 1944 congressional act that granted citizenship to refugees who were recruited into U. S. military service overseas. Until the Bulgarian borders were closed in 1949, refugees kept leaving by the thousands. The route to America was often indirect, with refugees usually spending several years in non-Communist European countries— Greece, Turkey, Italy, Austria, Germany—or even in South America before finally arriving in the United States. After 1956, the number of postwar refugees decreased to only 100 to 300 a year, but occasional relaxations on travel or border regulations continued to offer the opportunity to flee.
The fall of the single-party regime in Bulgaria in 1989 lifted the Communist restrictions on travel and opened the country's borders. Many Bulgarians, escaping economic turmoil under the new government, resumed their migration to western European countries or America. Since 1990, they have been arriving in the United States at a pace of around 1,000 a year. These immigrants are mainly skilled workers and professionals, similar to those who left during the Cold War.
Independence and the Modern Era
Bulgarian Americans witnessed the struggles and achievements of their homeland in the 20th and 21st centuries, as Bulgaria went through several political and social transformations. Bulgaria gained its full independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1908, after centuries of oppression and resistance1 The United States recognized Bulgaria’s independence in 1909, and established diplomatic relations in 19192 Bulgaria participated in the Balkan Wars and the World Wars, often siding with Germany and against the Allies. This led to the severance of diplomatic relations with the United States in 1941, and the declaration of war in 19422 Bulgaria was liberated by the Soviet Union in 1944, and became a socialist republic under the influence of Communism1
During the Cold War, Bulgarian Americans faced discrimination and suspicion from some Americans who viewed them as enemies or spies3 Many Bulgarian Americans supported the democratic opposition in Bulgaria, and hoped for the end of the Communist regime3 In 1989, Bulgaria experienced a peaceful revolution that ousted the Communist leader Todor Zhivkov, and initiated a transition to democracy and a market economy1 Bulgaria joined NATO in 2004, and the European Union in 2007, becoming a part of the Western alliance and integration1
Bulgarian Americans celebrated the progress and prosperity of their ancestral country, and maintained close ties with their relatives and friends in Bulgaria. They also contributed to the bilateral relations between the United States and Bulgaria, by promoting cultural, educational, and economic exchanges and cooperation3 Bulgarian Americans have been active in various fields and professions, such as science, education, business, politics, sports, and entertainment. They have also preserved and shared their rich and diverse heritage and identity, through various organizations, publications, events, and activities
Culture of Bulgarian Americans
Bulgarian Americans have a rich and diverse culture, influenced by their ancestral heritage and their American environment. They celebrate both Bulgarian and American holidays, such as Christmas, Easter, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving. They also observe some traditional Bulgarian festivals, such as Baba Marta (Grandma March), which marks the beginning of spring; Martenitsa, which are red and white strings or dolls that are worn for good luck and health; and Kukeri, which are masked dancers who perform rituals to scare away evil spirits.
Bulgarian Americans are mostly Eastern Orthodox Christians, belonging to the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. They attend churches that offer services in Bulgarian and English, and follow the religious customs and practices of their faith. Some Bulgarian Americans are also Muslims, Jews, Catholics, or Protestants, depending on their ethnic or religious background.
Bulgarian Americans speak Bulgarian, which is a South Slavic language that uses the Cyrillic alphabet. They also speak English, and sometimes other languages, such as Turkish, Russian, or Greek. Bulgarian Americans try to maintain their language skills and pass them on to their children, by enrolling them in Bulgarian schools, reading Bulgarian books and newspapers, watching Bulgarian TV and movies, and listening to Bulgarian music and radio.
Bulgarian Americans have a distinctive cuisine, which reflects the geographic and historical influences of their homeland. Some of the typical Bulgarian dishes are shopska salad, which is made of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and cheese; tarator, which is a cold soup of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill; banitsa, which is a pastry filled with cheese, eggs, or spinach; kebapche, which is a grilled minced meat; and musaka, which is a baked dish of potatoes, meat, and eggs. Bulgarian food is often seasoned with paprika, parsley, mint, and savory. Bulgarian yogurt and cheese are famous for their quality and taste. Bulgarian wine and rakia, which is a fruit brandy, are popular beverages.
Bulgarian Americans enjoy various forms of art, music, and literature, both from their native culture and from their adopted country. They appreciate the works of famous Bulgarian artists, such as Ivan Milev, Vladimir Dimitrov, and Christo; musicians, such as Georgi Minchev, Valya Balkanska, and Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares; and writers, such as Ivan Vazov, Hristo Botev, and Elias Canetti. They also participate in or support the contemporary Bulgarian American artists, such as Milcho Manchevski, a film director; Alex Maleev, a comic book artist; and Tzvetan Todorov, a philosopher.
Bulgarian Americans are proud of their heritage and identity, and contribute to the social and economic development of the United States. They are active in various fields and professions, such as science, education, business, politics, sports, and entertainment. Some of the notable Bulgarian Americans are John Atanasoff, the inventor of the first electronic digital computer; Carl Djerassi, the chemist who developed the birth control pill; Christo and Jeanne-Claude, the artists who created large-scale environmental installations; Nina Dobrev, the actress who starred in The Vampire Diaries; and Hristo Stoichkov, the soccer player who won the Ballon d'Or.
Language
Bulgarian Americans speak various languages, depending on their origin, education, and environment. The most common languages are Bulgarian, English, and Turkish, as well as some other minority languages, such as Romani, Russian, Armenian, and Greek
Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria, and the native language of most Bulgarian Americans. It is a South Slavic language that uses the Cyrillic alphabet. It is closely related to Macedonian, and has some similarities with Serbian, Croatian, and Russian. Bulgarian has a rich vocabulary, a complex grammar, and a distinctive phonology. Bulgarian is also the oldest written Slavic language, dating back to the ninth century A.D
English is the official language of the United States, and the second language of most Bulgarian Americans. It is a West Germanic language that uses the Latin alphabet. It is widely spoken and written in the world, and has a large vocabulary, a simple grammar, and a diverse phonology. English is also the language of science, technology, business, and entertainment, and has many varieties and dialects
Turkish is the official language of Turkey, and the native language of some Bulgarian Americans, especially those who belong to the Turkish minority in Bulgaria. It is a Turkic language that uses the Latin alphabet. It is spoken by millions of people in Turkey and other countries, and has a rich vocabulary, a simple grammar, and a harmonic phonology. Turkish is also the language of a rich and diverse culture, history, and literature.
Romani is the native language of some Bulgarian Americans, especially those who belong to the Roma minority in Bulgaria. It is an Indo-Aryan language that uses the Latin or Cyrillic alphabet. It is spoken by millions of Roma people in Europe and other continents, and has a varied vocabulary, a flexible grammar, and a melodic phonology. Romani is also the language of a nomadic and persecuted people, who have preserved their identity and traditions.
Other languages spoken by some Bulgarian Americans are Russian, Ukrainian, Armenian, Tatar, Greek, Romanian, and Aromanian. These languages reflect the ethnic and linguistic diversity of Bulgaria and its neighboring countries, as well as the migration and assimilation patterns of Bulgarian Americans. These languages belong to different language families, such as Indo-European, Turkic, and Caucasian, and have different alphabets, vocabularies, grammars, and phonologies
Bulgarian Americans try to maintain their language skills and pass them on to their children, by enrolling them in Bulgarian schools, reading Bulgarian books and newspapers, watching Bulgarian TV and movies, and listening to Bulgarian music and radio. They also learn and use English, and sometimes other languages, to communicate, study, work, and socialize in the American society. They also participate in or support the contemporary Bulgarian American writers, such as Kapka Kassabova, Elizabeth Kostova, and Miroslav Penkov1
Cuisine of Bulgarian Americans
Bulgarian Americans enjoy a variety of dishes that reflect the culinary heritage of their ancestral country, as well as the influences of other cultures and regions. Bulgarian cuisine is characterized by the use of cheese, yogurt, and vegetables, as well as meat, especially pork and chicken. Bulgarian food is often seasoned with paprika, parsley, mint, and savory, and sometimes with Turkish or Greek spices
Some of the most common and popular Bulgarian dishes are:
- Shopska salad: A fresh salad made of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and grated sirene cheese, dressed with vinegar and oil. It is considered the national dish of Bulgaria, and is often served with rakia, a fruit brandy12
- Banitsa: A pastry made of filo dough layered with cheese, eggs, yogurt, or spinach, and baked until golden and crispy. It is a typical breakfast or snack, and can be sweet or savory12
- Tarator: A cold soup made of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts. It is a refreshing and healthy dish, especially in the summer12
- Musaka: A baked dish made of potatoes, minced meat, eggs, and yogurt. It is similar to the Greek moussaka, but without eggplant or bechamel sauce. It is a hearty and satisfying meal, often served with salad12
- Kebapche: A grilled minced meat sausage, seasoned with paprika, cumin, and black pepper. It is usually served with bread, fries, or salad, and sometimes with ketchup or mustard. It is a popular street food and barbecue dish12
- Shkembe chorba: A spicy soup made of tripe, garlic, vinegar, and chili peppers. It is a traditional dish that is believed to cure hangovers and stomach aches. It is not for the faint of heart, but for those who enjoy it, it is a delicacy12
- Sarmi: Stuffed grape or cabbage leaves with rice and meat, cooked in a tomato sauce. It is a festive dish that is often prepared for Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. It is similar to the Turkish dolma or the Greek dolmades12
- Kavarma: A stew made of meat, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and herbs, cooked in a clay pot. It is a flavorful and tender dish that can be made with pork, chicken, lamb, or beef. It is usually served with bread or rice12
- Lutenitsa: A spread or dip made of roasted peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It is a staple in Bulgarian cuisine, and can be eaten with bread, cheese, meat, or eggs. It can be mild or spicy, depending on the preference12
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made of filo dough layered with nuts and honey or syrup. It is a dessert that is common in many Middle Eastern and Balkan countries, and has different variations. Bulgarian baklava is usually made with walnuts, and is cut into diamond shapes
Proverbs
Proverbs are short and wise sayings that express a general truth or advice. Bulgarian Americans have inherited and preserved many of the proverbs of their ancestral country, which reflect the diverse influences of Thracian, Slavic, Bulgar, Byzantine, Ottoman, and European cultures1 Some of these proverbs are related to success, wisdom, love, friendship, food, health, work, and language learning. Here are some examples of Bulgarian proverbs and their meanings:
Капка по капка, вир става. (Kapka po kapka, vir stava.) - Drop by drop turns into a pool. This proverb means that diligence and persistence lead to success. Even small efforts, if done consistently, can accumulate and produce great results2
Който се учи, той ще сполучи. (Koyto se uchi, toy shte spoluchi.) - A person who learns will succeed. This proverb means that knowledge is power and power is success. The more one learns, the more confident and capable one becomes in facing different challenges in life2
Капката дълбае камъка не със сила, а с постоянство. (Kapkata dalbae kamaka ne sas sila, a s postoyanstvo.) - A drop carves a stone not with force, but with perseverance. This proverb means that one should not give up easily, but rather work hard and patiently until one achieves one’s goal. Even a seemingly impossible task can be accomplished with determination and persistence2
Който се смее на последно, най-сладко се смее. (Koyto se smee na posledno, nay-sladko se smee.) - He who laughs last, laughs best. This proverb means that one should not be discouraged by temporary setbacks or failures, but rather wait for the final outcome. Sometimes, the situation can change unexpectedly and favorably for those who endure and persevere3
Лъжата крака няма. (Lazhata kraka nyama.) - Lies have no legs. This proverb means that lies cannot stand for long, and the truth will eventually come out. It is better to be honest and truthful, than to lie and deceive3
Любовта е слепа. (Lyubovta e slepa.) - Love is blind. This proverb means that love can make one overlook or ignore the faults or flaws of one’s beloved. It also implies that love can make one do irrational or foolish things3
Приятел в беда се познава. (Priyatel v beda se poznava.) - A friend in need is a friend indeed. This proverb means that true friends are those who help and support one in times of trouble or difficulty. It also implies that one should be a loyal and reliable friend to others3
Всяка птичка на своето гнездо е най-хубава. (Vsyaka ptichka na svoeto gnezdo e nay-hubava.) - Every bird likes its own nest best. This proverb means that everyone loves their own home and family, no matter how humble or simple they are. It also implies that one should respect and appreciate one’s roots and origins3
Хлябът не е само хляб. (Hlyabat ne e samo hlyab.) - Bread is not just bread. This proverb means that bread is more than just food, it is a symbol of life, work, and gratitude. It also implies that one should not waste or disrespect bread, but rather cherish and share it3
Здравето е най-голямото богатство. (Zdraveto e nay-golyamoto bogatstvo.) - Health is the greatest wealth. This proverb means that nothing is more valuable or important than one’s health and well-being. It also implies that one should take good care of one’s health and avoid anything that might harm it3
Който работи, той и спечели. (Koyto raboti, toy i specheli.) - He who works, he also earns. This proverb means that one should not expect to get anything without working hard and honestly for it. It also implies that one should not be lazy or greedy, but rather diligent and fair3
Dance and Music
Bulgarian Americans have a rich and diverse heritage of dance and music, which reflects the various influences of Thracian, Slavic, Bulgar, Byzantine, Ottoman, and European cultures1 Dance and music are central to Bulgarian culture, as they express the emotions, values, and identity of the people. They are also used to commemorate religious occasions, traditional holidays, past wars, and historical events, births, marriages, deaths, and other celebrations
Bulgarian dances are mostly performed in a circle or a line, with the dancers holding each other by the hands, the belts, or the shoulders. They are characterized by complex rhythms, intricate steps, and dynamic movements. Some of the most popular Bulgarian dances are horo, rachenitsa, pravo, kopanitsa, paidushko, and gankino
Bulgarian music is known for its distinctive melodies, harmonies, and vocal techniques. It uses a variety of instruments, such as the gaida (bagpipe), the kaval (flute), the gadulka (fiddle), the tambura (lute), the tapan (drum), and the accordion. It also features the unique Bulgarian singing style, which is characterized by a rich timbre, a wide range, and a dissonant ornamentation. Some of the most famous Bulgarian singers are Valya Balkanska, Yanka Rupkina, Boris Mashalov, and Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares
Bulgarian Americans have preserved and shared their dance and music traditions with their families, friends, and communities, as well as with other Americans and international audiences. They have formed dance groups, music bands, choirs, and festivals, where they perform, teach, and learn Bulgarian dance and music. They have also participated in or supported the contemporary Bulgarian American artists, such as Milcho Leviev, a jazz pianist; Theodosii Spassov, a kaval player; and Ivo Papasov, a clarinetist
Holidays
Bulgarian Americans celebrate various holidays that reflect their dual cultural and religious identity. They observe both American and Bulgarian national holidays, as well as some traditional and folk festivals. They also follow the Eastern Orthodox calendar, which differs from the Western Christian calendar by 13 days
Some of the most important and popular holidays for Bulgarian Americans are:
New Year’s Day (January 1): This is a common holiday for both Americans and Bulgarians, and it marks the beginning of the new year. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it with fireworks, parties, and exchanging gifts. They also perform some folk rituals, such as survakane, which involves tapping people with decorated branches to wish them health and happiness2
National Holiday (March 3): This is the national holiday of Bulgaria, and it commemorates the liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman Empire in 1878, after the Russo-Turkish War. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by attending parades, concerts, and ceremonies, and displaying the Bulgarian flag and symbols. They also honor the heroes and martyrs who fought for Bulgaria’s freedom and independence3
Easter (March or April): This is the most important religious holiday for Bulgarian Americans, as it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. They follow the Eastern Orthodox date, which is usually later than the Western Christian date. Bulgarian Americans prepare for Easter by fasting, praying, and attending church services. They also dye eggs in red, which symbolizes the blood of Christ, and crack them with each other, which symbolizes the breaking of the tomb. They also bake kozunak, a sweet bread with raisins and nuts, and roast lamb, which are traditional Easter foods2
St. George’s Day (May 6): This is a major holiday for Bulgarian Americans, as it honors St. George, the patron saint of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian Army. It is also associated with the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by attending church services, visiting the graves of their relatives and friends, and eating lamb, which is considered a sacred animal of St. George. They also wear green branches or flowers, which signify life and fertility2
Bulgarian Education and Culture, and Slavic Script Day (May 24): This is a cultural and educational holiday for Bulgarian Americans, as it commemorates the creation of the Cyrillic alphabet by the brothers St. Cyril and St. Methodius in the ninth century. The Cyrillic alphabet is the basis of the Bulgarian language and script, and it is also used by many other Slavic and non-Slavic languages. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by attending cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and lectures, and honoring the achievements of Bulgarian writers, artists, and scholars. They also wear martenitsa, which are red and white strings or dolls that are exchanged on March 1, and are supposed to be worn until May 242
Independence Day (July 4): This is the national holiday of the United States, and it celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which declared the independence of the United States from Great Britain. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by joining the American festivities, such as parades, fireworks, barbecues, and picnics. They also express their gratitude and pride for being part of the American society and democracy4
Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday of November): This is a traditional American holiday, and it celebrates the harvest and the blessings of the past year. It originated from the feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Native Americans in 1621. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by gathering with their family and friends, and enjoying a meal that usually consists of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. They also give thanks for their health, happiness, and opportunities4
Christmas (December 25): This is a common holiday for both Americans and Bulgarians, and it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Bulgarian Americans celebrate it by decorating their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments, and exchanging gifts. They also attend church services, sing carols, and visit their relatives and friends. They also perform some folk rituals, such as koleduvane, which involves young men dressed in traditional costumes who go from house to house and sing songs to wish good fortune and prosperity2
Family and Community Dynamics
Bulgarian Americans have strong family and community ties, which reflect their cultural and religious values. They respect and support their elders, relatives, and friends, and often gather for celebrations, rituals, and events. They also participate in various organizations, associations, and networks, that aim to preserve and promote their Bulgarian heritage and identity12
Family roles and relations among Bulgarian Americans vary depending on the generation, education, and assimilation level. The first generation of immigrants tended to follow the traditional Bulgarian model, where the father was the head of the household, the mother was the homemaker, and the children were obedient and respectful. The second and third generations, however, adopted more egalitarian and flexible roles, influenced by the American society and culture. They also became more independent and individualistic, and sometimes experienced conflicts or gaps with their parents or grandparents
Bulgarian Americans value education and hard work, and they strive to achieve success and prosperity in the United States. They are active in various fields and professions, such as science, education, business, politics, sports, and entertainment. They also contribute to the social and economic development of their communities and the country. Some of the notable Bulgarian Americans are John Atanasoff, the inventor of the first electronic digital computer; Carl Djerassi, the chemist who developed the birth control pill; Christo and Jeanne-Claude, the artists who created large-scale environmental installations; Nina Dobrev, the actress who starred in The Vampire Diaries; and Hristo Stoichkov, the soccer player who won the Ballon d’Or23
Bulgarian Americans also maintain close ties with their homeland, and with other Bulgarian communities around the world. They visit Bulgaria regularly, and keep in touch with their relatives and friends through phone, email, or social media. They also support various causes and initiatives that benefit Bulgaria, such as humanitarian aid, cultural exchange, and democratic transition. They also participate in or support the contemporary Bulgarian artists, writers, and scholars, who enrich the Bulgarian culture and literature12
Family Roles
Family roles are the patterns of behavior and responsibilities that define the relationships and expectations among family members. Family roles are influenced by various factors, such as culture, religion, education, and environment. Bulgarian Americans have diverse and dynamic family roles, which reflect their dual cultural and religious identity, as well as their adaptation and integration to the American society
Bulgarian Americans have different types of families, such as nuclear, extended, blended, or single-parent families. They also have different family sizes, ranging from small to large, depending on their preferences, resources, and circumstances. Bulgarian Americans value their family ties, and they try to maintain close and frequent contact with their relatives, both in the United States and in Bulgaria. They also support and help each other in times of need or crisis
Bulgarian Americans have different family roles, depending on the generation, education, and assimilation level. The first generation of immigrants, who arrived in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tended to follow the traditional Bulgarian model, where the father was the head of the household, the mother was the homemaker, and the children were obedient and respectful. The father was the main breadwinner, the decision-maker, and the authority figure, while the mother was the caregiver, the nurturer, and the mediator. The children were expected to study hard, follow the rules, and honor the family name. The family was patriarchal, hierarchical, and collectivistic
The second and third generations of immigrants, who were born or raised in the United States, adopted more egalitarian and flexible roles, influenced by the American society and culture. The father and the mother shared the economic, domestic, and parental responsibilities, and made decisions together. The children were encouraged to be independent, creative, and assertive, and to pursue their own interests and goals. The family was democratic, horizontal, and individualistic
Bulgarian Americans also experienced some conflicts or gaps between the generations, due to the different values, beliefs, and expectations. The older generation sometimes felt that the younger generation was losing their Bulgarian identity and heritage, and becoming too Americanized or assimilated. They also worried that the younger generation was disrespecting or neglecting their elders, traditions, and customs. The younger generation sometimes felt that the older generation was too conservative or rigid, and not understanding or accepting their choices and lifestyles. They also struggled to balance their dual cultural and religious identity, and to cope with the challenges and opportunities of living in a diverse and dynamic society
Bulgarian Americans have tried to resolve these conflicts or gaps by communicating, compromising, and respecting each other. They have also tried to preserve and share their Bulgarian identity and heritage, by participating in various cultural, educational, and religious activities and events. They have also tried to embrace and appreciate their American identity and citizenship, by contributing to the social and economic development of their communities and the country
Traditions of Early Life
Bulgarian Americans have various traditions and rituals that mark the early stages of life, such as birth, baptism, and name day. These traditions reflect the cultural and religious heritage of their ancestral country, as well as their adaptation and integration to the American society1
Birth is a joyful and sacred occasion for Bulgarian Americans, and it is celebrated with various customs and symbols. For example, when a baby is born, it is customary to give the child a name that is derived from the name of a saint or a relative. The name day, or imenden, is celebrated as a second birthday, and the person receives gifts and congratulations from family and friends2 Another custom is to place a red thread or a blue bead on the baby’s wrist or clothes, to ward off the evil eye and bring good luck and health3 A third custom is to plant a tree or a flower in the garden or in a pot, to symbolize the growth and development of the child.
Baptism is an important religious ceremony for Bulgarian Americans, and it is usually performed within the first year of the child’s life. It involves the immersion or sprinkling of water on the child’s head, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The child also receives a cross and a candle, which signify the faith and the light of Christ. The child also has a godparent, or kum/kuma, who sponsors the baptism and promises to guide and support the child in the Christian life. The baptism is followed by a festive reception, where the guests celebrate the child’s entry into the church and the community2
Name day is another significant celebration for Bulgarian Americans, and it is observed on the feast day of the saint whose name the person bears. For example, if the person’s name is George, the name day is on May 6, which is the feast day of St. George. Name day is considered more important than birthday, and it is celebrated with more enthusiasm and reverence. The person who celebrates the name day receives visitors, gifts, and blessings, and also offers food and drinks to the guests. The person also attends church services, and thanks God for the gift of life and name
Weddings
Weddings are one of the most important and festive occasions for Bulgarian Americans, and they are celebrated with various traditions and rituals that reflect their cultural and religious heritage. Bulgarian weddings are usually lively, cheerful, loud, and emotional, with a lot of music, dancing, food, and drink. They are also often long and exhausting, with many different locations and events to attend
Some of the most common and popular Bulgarian wedding traditions are:
The creation of the wedding flag: This tradition involves the groom cutting a tree branch and decorating it with red or red and white fabric. The wedding flag is then sent to the bride’s house, where she and her friends bless it and repel any evil spirits. The wedding flag is then displayed at the groom’s house, and later at the wedding venue, as a symbol of good fortune and happiness13
The wedding invitation: This tradition involves the groom, the best man, and the relatives going around the village or the neighborhood and inviting people to the wedding. The groom carries a bottle of wine or rakia, and offers a sip to the hosts, who accept the invitation by drinking. The wedding invitation is a way of showing respect and gratitude to the guests, and also of spreading the joy and excitement of the wedding
The bride’s abduction: This tradition involves the groom and his friends kidnapping the bride from her house or from the wedding venue, and taking her to a secret location. The bride’s abduction is a playful and humorous act, and the bride is usually in on the joke. The groom then has to pay a ransom to the bride’s family or friends, who pretend to be angry and demand money, gifts, or drinks. The bride’s abduction is a way of showing the groom’s love and desire for the bride, and also of adding some fun and drama to the wedding15
The crowning of the bride and groom: This tradition involves the priest or the best man placing crowns or wreaths on the heads of the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony. The crowns or wreaths are usually made of flowers, leaves, or metal, and are connected by a ribbon. The crowning of the bride and groom is a symbol of their eternal bond and royalty, and also of their blessing and protection by God1
The horo dance: This tradition involves the guests dancing in a circle or a line, holding each other by the hands, the belts, or the shoulders. The horo dance is accompanied by the sound of traditional instruments, such as the gaida, the kaval, and the tapan. The horo dance is a way of expressing joy and unity, and also of honoring the bride and groom. There are many types of horo dances, such as rachenitsa, pravo, kopanitsa, and gankino, each with its own rhythm, steps, and movements1
The bread breaking: This tradition involves the bride and groom breaking a loaf of bread, which is usually decorated with salt, honey, and coins. The bread breaking is done either at the entrance of the wedding venue, or at the beginning of the wedding reception. The bread breaking is a symbol of abundance and prosperity, and also of sharing and caring. The bride and groom each take a piece of the bread, and whoever gets the bigger piece is said to be the dominant one in the marriage1
Funerals
Funerals are solemn and respectful occasions for Bulgarian Americans, and they are conducted with various traditions and rituals that reflect their cultural and religious heritage. Bulgarian funerals and burials typically occur within 24 hours of the death, following the Eastern Orthodox Christian rites and customs12
Some of the most common and important Bulgarian funeral traditions are:
The preparation of the body: This tradition involves washing, dressing, and laying the body of the deceased in a coffin, which is open for viewing by relatives and friends. The body is usually dressed in white or black clothes, and adorned with a cross and a wreath. The body is also sprinkled with holy water and incense, and covered with a shroud or a veil. The preparation of the body is a way of showing respect and honor to the deceased, and preparing them for the afterlife
The funeral service: This tradition involves the priest or the relatives chanting prayers and psalms for the soul of the deceased, and blessing the coffin with holy water and oil. The funeral service is usually held in a church or at the cemetery, and attended by family, friends, and neighbors. The funeral service is a way of expressing grief and faith, and asking God for mercy and forgiveness for the deceased23
The burial: This tradition involves carrying the coffin to the grave, and lowering it into the ground. The burial is accompanied by the sound of bells, and the throwing of rice, coins, or flowers into the grave. The burial is followed by a memorial meal, where the guests share bread and wine, and remember the life of the departed. The burial is a way of saying goodbye and letting go of the deceased, and also of providing comfort and support to the living23
The commemoration: This tradition involves visiting the grave and lighting candles on the third, ninth, twentieth, and fortieth day after death, and then on every anniversary of the death. The commemoration is also marked by giving alms to the poor, donating to the church, or distributing food to the guests. The commemoration is a way of keeping the memory and the connection with the deceased, and also of praying for their peace and salvation23
Employment and Economic Traditions
Bulgarian Americans have various employment and economic traditions that reflect their cultural and historical background, as well as their adaptation and integration to the American society. Bulgarian Americans value education and hard work, and they strive to achieve success and prosperity in the United States. They are active in various fields and professions, such as science, education, business, politics, sports, and entertainment. They also contribute to the social and economic development of their communities and the country12
Some of the employment and economic traditions of Bulgarian Americans are:
The seasonal migration: This tradition involves Bulgarian peasants from poor, mountainous regions leaving their homes and seeking temporary work abroad, usually in neighboring countries. This tradition dates back to the 19th century, when Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule and faced poverty and oppression. The seasonal migration was a way of earning extra income and improving the living conditions of the families13
The entrepreneurship: This tradition involves Bulgarian immigrants starting their own businesses and enterprises, often in the fields of trade, agriculture, or crafts. This tradition dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the first wave of Bulgarian immigrants arrived in the United States. They tended to settle in areas where there were other Slavic communities, mainly in the Midwest or Northeast. They established shops, farms, factories, and restaurants, and provided goods and services to their fellow immigrants and Americans1
The innovation: This tradition involves Bulgarian Americans inventing or developing new products, technologies, or methods, often in the fields of science, engineering, or medicine. This tradition dates back to the mid 20th century, when the second wave of Bulgarian immigrants arrived in the United States. They were mostly educated and skilled professionals, who sought better opportunities and freedom in the American society. They made significant contributions to various fields and disciplines, and received recognition and awards for their achievements1
Politics and Government
Bulgarian Americans have various political views and affiliations, depending on their generation, education, and assimilation level. They are influenced by both the political history and culture of their ancestral country, as well as the current issues and trends of the American society. Bulgarian Americans participate in the political and governmental processes of the United States, as citizens, voters, candidates, and officials. They also maintain an interest and involvement in the politics and government of Bulgaria, as well as the relations between the two countries
Bulgarian Americans have experienced different political regimes and systems in their homeland, from the Ottoman Empire, to the Kingdom of Bulgaria, to the Communist People’s Republic of Bulgaria, to the modern Republic of Bulgaria. They have witnessed the struggles and achievements of their country in the 20th and 21st centuries, as Bulgaria went through several political and social transformations, such as the Balkan Wars, the World Wars, the Cold War, the 1989 Revolution, the transition to democracy and a market economy, and the integration into NATO and the European Union
Bulgarian Americans have also adapted and integrated to the political and governmental system of the United States, which is based on a federal, presidential, and constitutional republic. They have learned and respected the principles and values of the American democracy, such as the separation of powers, the rule of law, the checks and balances, the civil rights and liberties, and the pluralism and diversity. They have also faced and overcome some challenges and barriers, such as discrimination, prejudice, and stereotyping, especially during the Cold War, when they were viewed as enemies or spies by some Americans
Bulgarian Americans have been active and engaged in the political and governmental affairs of the United States, at the local, state, and national levels. They have registered and voted in various elections and referendums, and expressed their opinions and preferences on various issues and policies. They have also run for and held various public offices, such as mayors, councilors, legislators, judges, governors, and congressmen. Some of the notable Bulgarian American politicians are John Atanasoff Jr., the son of the inventor of the first electronic digital computer and a former mayor of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; George Parvanov, a former president of Bulgaria and a naturalized U.S. citizen; and Ted Deutch, a U.S. Representative from Florida and a co-chair of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus.
Bulgarian Americans have also maintained a close and cordial relationship with the politics and government of Bulgaria, and supported the bilateral relations between the United States and Bulgaria. They have visited Bulgaria regularly, and kept in touch with their relatives and friends, as well as the political and governmental leaders and institutions. They have also supported various causes and initiatives that benefit Bulgaria, such as humanitarian aid, cultural exchange, and democratic transition. They have also participated in or supported the contemporary Bulgarian political parties, movements, and activists, who strive to improve the political and social conditions and prospects of Bulgaria12
Individual and Group Contributions
Although Bulgarian Americans are comparatively few in number, their contributions to American society have been significant. The list below provides a small sample of notable Bulgarian Americans in various fields and professions1
Art
Bulgarian Americans have enriched the American art scene with their creativity and talent. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American artists are:
- Christo and Jeanne-Claude: A married couple who created large-scale environmental installations, such as wrapping the Reichstag in Berlin, surrounding islands in Miami with pink fabric, and installing gates in Central Park in New York. Their works were temporary, but spectacular and memorable2
- Milcho Leviev: A jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, who worked with famous musicians such as Don Ellis, Billy Cobham, and Art Pepper. He was also a professor of music at the University of California, Los Angeles, and a recipient of the Bulgarian Stara Planina Order3
- Svetlana Boym: A cultural critic, writer, and media artist, who taught at Harvard University and wrote several books on memory, nostalgia, and the post-communist condition. She also created multimedia projects, such as The Off-Modern Mirror and The Lost Museum.
Business
Bulgarian Americans have been successful and innovative in various business sectors, such as trade, agriculture, technology, and entertainment. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American businessmen are:
- John Atanasoff: The inventor of the first electronic digital computer, the Atanasoff–Berry Computer, which he built with his assistant Clifford Berry in 1939. He was also a professor of physics and mathematics at Iowa State College and a consultant for the U.S. Army and Navy.
- Carl Djerassi: The chemist who developed the first oral contraceptive pill, which revolutionized the field of reproductive medicine and women’s rights. He was also a professor of chemistry at Stanford University and a writer of novels, plays, and poems.
- Hristo Kyuchukov: The founder and CEO of Telerik, a software company that provides tools and solutions for web, mobile, and desktop development. He was also a co-founder and board member of Endeavor Bulgaria, a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs.
Literature and Journalism
Bulgarian Americans have produced and published various works of literature and journalism, in both Bulgarian and English languages. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American writers and journalists are:
- Aleko Konstantinov: A writer, journalist, and lawyer, who is best known for his satirical novel Bay Ganyo, which depicts the life and adventures of a Bulgarian peasant in Europe. He was also the founder of the Bulgarian Tourist Union and the organizer of the first Bulgarian expedition to the Alps.
- Elizabeth Kostova: A novelist, who is best known for her historical fiction The Historian, which tells the story of a young woman’s search for the truth about Dracula. She was also the co-founder of the Elizabeth Kostova Foundation, which supports Bulgarian writers and translators.
- Miroslav Penkov: A short story writer, who is best known for his collection East of the West, which explores the themes of identity, history, and culture in Bulgaria and America. He was also a recipient of the BBC International Short Story Award and a professor of creative writing at the University of North Texas.
Medicine
Bulgarian Americans have made significant contributions to the field of medicine, both as researchers and practitioners. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American doctors are:
- Assen Alexandrov: A neurologist and stroke specialist, who is the director of the Comprehensive Stroke Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is also a pioneer of the use of transcranial Doppler ultrasound for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke.
- Maria Siemionow: A plastic surgeon and transplantologist, who is the director of microsurgery research at the Cleveland Clinic. She is also the leader of the team that performed the first near-total face transplant in the United States in 2008.
- George Chaldakov: A pathologist and angiologist, who is the president of the Bulgarian Society for Cell Biology. He is also a co-discoverer of the adipobiology concept, which studies the role of fat cells in health and disease.
Politics
Bulgarian Americans have been active and engaged in the political and governmental affairs of the United States, at the local, state, and national levels. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American politicians are:
- John Atanasoff Jr.: The son of the inventor of the first electronic digital computer and a former mayor of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was also a businessman, a philanthropist, and a supporter of Bulgarian causes.
- George Parvanov: A former president of Bulgaria and a naturalized U.S. citizen. He was also the leader of the Bulgarian Socialist Party and the chairman of the National Assembly of Bulgaria.
- Ted Deutch: A U.S. Representative from Florida and a co-chair of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus. He is also a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Judiciary Committee.
Media
Bulgarian Americans have been involved and influential in various media outlets and platforms, such as television, radio, film, and online. Some of the prominent Bulgarian American media personalities are:
- Nina Dobrev: An actress, who is best known for her roles in the television series The Vampire Diaries and Degrassi: The Next Generation. She is also a model, a producer, and an activist.
- Hristo Stoichkov: A soccer player and coach, who is best known for his career with FC Barcelona and the Bulgarian national team. He is also a commentator and analyst for Univision Deportes Network and a recipient of the Ballon d’Or.
- Maria Popova: A writer and blogger, who is best known for her website Brain Pickings, which features articles on various topics, such as literature, art, science, and philosophy. She is also a columnist for The New York Times and a fellow at the Berkman Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University.