章 15: Enthronement

The coronation of Ferdinand Maximilian Karl Leopold Maria as kaiser of Bulgaria on July 12, 1887, marked a memorable and prestigious event at the Vrana Palace. Ferdinand's meticulous efforts had elevated the ceremony's status, attracting influential guests with more substantial influence than historical counterparts.

Crown Prince Edward of the British Empire, Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria-Hungary, and the King of Greece attended in person, symbolizing the support of the Great Powers. Ferdinand's strategic goal to deter Bulgarian factions with external backing and lay the groundwork for future reforms seemed accomplished.

Bulgaria, blessed with diverse natural terrain, encompassing mountains, hills, plains, lakes, and rivers like the Danube and the Maritsa, faced challenges in terms of limited abundant natural resources. While coal, lead, zinc, copper, iron, uranium, manganese, chromium, mineral salts, and a small amount of oil were present, Ferdinand acknowledged the country's potential constraints.

Reflecting on the new period ahead, Ferdinand noted, "It has been ruled by the Ottomans for a long time and just gained independence. There are no big aristocrats and big capitalists in the country. The initial start of progress is very good, but there is not much potential." Despite his preparedness, Ferdinand couldn't help but contemplate the road ahead.

Turning to Stambolov, a prominent Bulgarian politician often likened to Bismarck, Ferdinand sought guidance on personnel appointments and dismissals. Stambolov, with a notable political history, presented a carefully considered list of cabinet members and key government officials for approval.

Ferdinand, still in the early days of his reign, prioritized stability. Acknowledging Stambolov's proposal, he greenlit the appointments, with plans for the new officials to take office promptly. Anticipating the need for strategic policy proposals, Ferdinand scheduled a cabinet meeting for the upcoming week.

As Stambolov exited, Ferdinand couldn't shake the feeling of being perceived as a mere rubber stamp. He pondered the delicate balance of power dynamics within the cabinet, silently musing on the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in his role as kaiser of Bulgaria.

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Deep in thought about the potential avenues for Bulgaria's growth, Ferdinand Maximilian Karl Leopold Maria strategized in his private chambers. Recognizing the advantages the country held, he outlined his vision for the nation's development.

'Bulgaria still has the advantage of growth. First: there is no strong investor; the industrial base is relatively poor. It is possible to fully monopolize the business. There is almost no trouble on the part of the government. Second: They are very rich. There is no such thing as a technology barrier now. I can get the technology I want!'

Ferdinand formulated plans for economic diversification, emphasizing the need for intense development in agriculture. He questioned the utility of certain industries, hinting at a preference for sectors that would allow Bulgaria to avoid reliance on loans for salaries. Simultaneously, he recognized the importance of education, proposing an emphasis on literacy classes and encouraging patriotic youth to propagate cultural literacy.

As Ferdinand delved into his planning, the chamberlain interrupted with a reminder of the impending cabinet meeting. Collecting his thoughts, Ferdinand acknowledged the chamberlain's notice and expressed his readiness to proceed.

"Yes, I'll be right there," Ferdinand affirmed, prepared to share and discuss his vision with the cabinet ministers assembled in the main hall. The strategic decisions and policies discussed in this meeting would play a crucial role in shaping Bulgaria's trajectory under Ferdinand's leadership.

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"Excuse me, Mr. Stambolov," Ferdinand spoke up.

"Yes, Your Highness, please speak!" Stambolov responded, his tone tinged with some grumbling.

Ferdinand, unapologetically, questioned the foundation of the proposed plan. "Mr. Stambolov, how was this plan made? How much population does Bulgaria have now? And how much of it is in agriculture and how much in industry? What is the situation with regard to education? What is the situation with regard to the resources available in the country?" Ferdinand's pointed inquiries exposed the flaws in the plan, giving Stambolov a challenging moment and prompting a veto of the vague proposal.

Stambolov, after a brief pause, responded, "Your Highness, Bulgaria currently has a population of 3,104,500 people. Most of them are farmers. The education status and the resources available in the country have not been taken into account. Well, I admit that this plan was made in a bit of a hurry."

Ferdinand privately acknowledged the rarity of historical figures who could grasp the intricacies so swiftly. Outwardly, he expressed his viewpoint, "Mr. Prime Minister, we are obliged to the Bulgarian people. We must understand the reality of the country's affairs before drawing up a program of policy."

He continued with his critique, "On the matter of personnel salaries, I approve! The rest of them, you have to go back and redo them. The big industrial plan, hell, I've never even heard of any industry in Bulgaria. Be specific about it, do you understand?"

"In terms of demographics, I suggest you focus on agriculture first. We have to consider the interests of the majority! There is also education reform. The focus should be in the direction of science subjects. You may also establish literacy classes first. For industrial development, first figure out the layout of resources and make plans according to local conditions. I don't want to see anything like this big industrial machine plan again!"

Stambolov, his head bowed, responded, "Sorry, Your Highness, we'll go right back and redo it." He had no way to refute Ferdinand's critique, having been beaten over the head by the monarch.

In Ferdinand's estimation, the current Bulgarian government resembled the Tongmenghui during the Xinhai Revolution—a group of idealists boasting about their capabilities, yet entirely naive about specific policies and strategies.

"Suit yourselves, gentlemen. For the sake of Bulgaria's future, you've come a long way!" Ferdinand concluded, acknowledging the resolve of the cabinet, despite the necessary revisions.

"For Bulgaria!" A few people who had slumped a moment ago now rallied into high spirits.

"Struggle for Bulgaria!" they exclaimed, determined to forge a path forward for their nation under Ferdinand's reign.

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'Well, not bad. The young patriots are just good at fooling around!' Ferdinand silently mused as he observed this cabinet, consisting mostly of individuals with an average age of no more than thirty-five.

In later historical accounts, the Stambolov government was depicted as a regime characterized by police terror. It garnered the support of a segment of the emerging capitalist class and aligned itself entirely with their interests, vigorously promoting the development of factories and trade.

However, this approach left out the vast majority of peasants and workers, who were excluded from the benefits of this economic focus. As a result, the ruling power base became weak and faced challenges.

A significant portion of the clergy, along with some intellectuals and petty capitalists, opposed the government's radical anti-Russian policy. This dissenting faction sought a different direction, creating internal tensions within the country. The complex interplay of interests and ideologies added to the challenges facing Bulgaria in this critical period of its history.