# Stambolov becomes prime minister (September 1887)

URL: https://allhistories.com/bulgaria/timeline/1887-stambolov-becomes-prime-minister
Location: Sofia
Themes: Rulers & Successions

With Ferdinand's accession Stefan Stambolov stepped down as regent and, in September 1887, became Prime Minister of Bulgaria, a post he held for seven years until May 1894. Stambolov, a veteran of the Stara Zagora and April uprisings, pursued a policy independent of Russia, with which relations remained cold throughout his government. He consolidated the state, promoted economic development and modernisation, and firmly suppressed the pro-Russian opposition and conspiracies against the prince. His rule grew increasingly authoritarian, and he survived an assassination attempt, after which many suspects were imprisoned and harshly treated.

## Why it matters
Stambolov's government secured the survival of the principality and of Ferdinand's throne in their most dangerous years, earning him a place among the founders of modern Bulgaria.

Ruler at the Time: [Ferdinand I](https://allhistories.com/bulgaria/rulers/ferdinand-i)

Prime Minister: Stefan Stambolov (Liberal parties)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Stefan Stambolov](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stefan_Stambolov)
- [Wikipedia — List of prime ministers of Bulgaria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_prime_ministers_of_Bulgaria)
- [Wikipedia — Ferdinand I of Bulgaria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferdinand_I_of_Bulgaria)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Stambolov becomes prime minister](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Stambolov+becomes+prime+minister)
- [Wikipedia — Principality of Bulgaria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Principality_of_Bulgaria)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of Bulgarian history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_Bulgarian_history)