February 28, 1870 | Establishment of the Bulgarian Exarchate
By sultan's firman, the Bulgarian Exarchate is created: an autonomous Orthodox church separated from the Patriarchate of Constantinople.
The Exarchate becomes a key tool of Bulgarian nationalism, supported by Russia's Pan-Slavic project.
Ecclesiastical affiliation ceases to be a religious issue: whoever belongs to the Exarchate is considered "Bulgarian", whoever remains in the Patriarchate, "Greek".
The conflict over Macedonia is just beginning.
January 30, 1878 | Treaty of San Stefano
• After the Russian - Turkish War (1877–78), Russia imposes a favorable treaty on the Ottomans.
• "Great Bulgaria" is created, extending as far as Macedonia.
The Greek population is reacting dynamically.
February 18–19, 1878 | The Macedonian Revolutions
• In Bourino (Kozani), Anastasios Piheon forms the "Provisional Government of Elimia".
• In Litochoro, Kosmas Doumbiotis forms the "Revolutionary Government of Macedonia".
Despite the lack of support from the Greek government, the uprisings express Macedonian opposition to the Bulgarian annexation.
June 13, 1878 | Congress of Berlin
The Great Powers are concerned about Russian influence in the Balkans and revise the Treaty of San Stefano:
• "Great Bulgaria" is disintegrating.
• Macedonia returns to the Ottoman Empire.
• The conflict is postponed — it does not end.
What is happening in the world at the same time?
1869: Opening of the Suez Canal – crucial for the British presence in the East
1870: Unification of Italy and fall of the Papal States
1871: German unification – Europe is changing shape
1877–78: The Russian - Turkish War ignites a new geopolitical chessboard in the Balkans
