8 January, 21:07
The evolution of the supreme ruler's title in Bulgaria occurred as follows. Initially, the rulers of the First Bulgarian Empire referred to themselves as "khans."
After the adoption of Christianity in the 9th century, their title changed to "knyaz" (prince).
In the early 10th century, Knyaz Simeon I, after achieving impressive victories over the Roman Empire (Byzantium), compelled it to recognize him as "Czar" (Sar, Car, Tsar, Tzar, Zar) or "Basileus of the Bulgarians and Romans," equivalent to the Byzantine title of emperor.
Interestingly, written sources of the time do not mention Simeon as a "Sar" or "Car" (Zar)—this term is absent from official documents. The title of Basileus is present, but not that of Tsar, even though most modern sources claim that Simeon I was the first Tsar in history.
Despite the widespread belief that the term "Sar" derives from the Roman "Caesar," this is actually untrue.
"Tsar" originates from the Turkic word "Sar," meaning "golden," "divine," or "radiant," and corresponds to a title similar to the Roman "Augustus"—a symbol of divine authority and majesty. The comparison to "Caesar" is more symbolic than literal, emphasizing the uniqueness of Bulgarian titulature, which was later adopted by the Turkic world and eventually by Moscow.
The Evolution of the Title
After Bulgaria was conquered by the Byzantines in the 11th century, its statehood was restored in the late 12th century with the establishment of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396). Its rulers, following Simeon's traditions, referred to themselves as "Czars." For example, Kaloyan held the title "Czar of the Bulgarians and Vlachs," while Ivan Asen II was titled "Czar of the Bulgarians and Greeks." These titles symbolized their authority over various peoples, underscoring Bulgaria's imperial ambitions.
However, Byzantine and Western European sources often highlighted the "inequality" of the Bulgarian rulers' title within the international hierarchy. To Byzantium, they remained "archons" or "princes," reflecting a diplomatic effort to diminish their status.
The Third Period: Bulgaria as a Tsardom
After Bulgaria’s unexpected liberation during the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), the country gained the status of an autonomous principality. In 1908, its ruler Ferdinand I declared full independence for Bulgaria and proclaimed himself Czar. In international practice, this title was equated to that of a king, reflecting the hierarchical distinction from the imperial houses of great powers.
The Significance of the Title "Sar"
Bulgarian rulers, starting with Simeon I, used the Turkic title "Czar" or "Sar" not only as a symbol of imperial ambition but also as a means to emphasize the uniqueness of their state. This term became a cultural and historical legacy, reflecting Bulgaria's aspiration for political independence and equality with great empires.
The Third Bulgarian Czardom lasted until 1946, when the communist government abolished the monarchy and proclaimed a republic. However, the historical significance of the title "Sar" continues to draw interest, symbolizing the rich and complex history of Bulgarian statehood. It also highlights the profound influence of Bulgarian culture on Moscow, which adopted not only this title but also the imperial idea of the "Third Rome."