Summary
Praise for the previous edition:
"Straightforward prose and well-organized chapters detail Bulgaria's many wars, turbulent politics, and fascinating culture…Educators and students will find the book useful for learning about a variety of governments, the challenging process of political transitions, and the intriguing history of a country still trying to find its identity...an easily accessible research tool." - Booklist
"...offers a sense of a rich national identity...makes excellent use of unfamiliar aspects of Bulgarian life to draw readers in..." - Kirkus Reviews
Severe economic problems, food shortages, high crime, and general civilian unhappiness are among the challenges besetting modern Bulgarians, who are still struggling to let go of their communist past. Faced with a downward economic spiral in the late 20th century and what leading journalist Petko Bocharova called "an absence of a feeling of national belonging," Bulgaria has since experienced economic stability and the return of former king Simeon II, who became prime minister in June 2001 as head of the newly formed National Movement party.
Bulgaria, Second Edition chronicles the details of this struggle and portrays the rich, historic past of Bulgaria. From the country's beautiful architecture to its distinct national character, this updated edition details important political and social leaders such as Zhelyu Zhelev, relationships with diverse minority groups such as the Roma, and the country's history as well as its present concerns. Bringing readers up to date on new developments in the country and highlighting currents in politics and culture, this reference remains a solid addition to public and personal collections.