Bulgarian Identity vs Ethnocentrism: Why Bulgarians Do Not Consider Themselves Ethnic Macedonians

Understanding the complexities of national and ethnic identity is crucial in today's globalized world. This article will delve into the question of why Bulgarians do not consider themselves ethnic Macedonians, in contrast to how people from other countries identify themselves by regional ethnicity. We will explore historical contexts, demographic statistics, and provide a broader understanding of the issue.

Demographics and Identities

While a small portion of Bulgarians may identify as ethnic Macedonians, the majority of the population, 80%, identify as ethnic Bulgarians. This is further broken down into significant subgroups such as ethnic Turks (10%) and Romanians (8%). Other traditional minority groups include Armenians and Jews, with estimates suggesting only a few thousand may consider themselves ethnic Macedonians.

Very few Bulgarian citizens consider themselves ethnic Macedonians. The large majority (80%) are ethnic Bulgarians, followed by ethnic Turks (10%) and Roma (8%). The other two smaller traditional minorities, Armenians and Jews, likely have fewer than 1000 adherents who consider themselves ethnic Macedonians.

It is important to note that the term "ethnic Macedonian" is often a politically charged label. In Bulgaria, it is a sensitive topic, with many Macedonians considering themselves to be Bulgarians of the same quality, regardless of their regional origin.

Regional and Ethnic Identity in Other Countries

Many countries around the world embrace regional and ethnic identities. For instance:

German citizens may identify as ethnically Saxon or Bavarian. French citizens may identify as ethnically Bourbon or Proven?al. Italian citizens may identify as ethnically Tuscan or Lombard. Czech citizens may identify as ethnically Bohemian or Moravian. American citizens may identify as ethnically Texan.

In Bulgaria, we do not see many people identify as ethnic Macedonians, Thracians, Mysians, or other regional groups from the north. All Bulgarians are seen as one unified group, regardless of their regional origin. We consider ourselves Bulgarians, as we all share the same national identity.

The Ethnos Macedonian

The term "Ethnos Macedonian" has been a Source of controversy since it began to be used in 1945. It originated in the context of a political group that emerged after World War II and aimed to establish a distinct Macedonian identity separate from Bulgarians.

The term Ethnos Macedonian has existed since 1945 and only because there are people who consider themselves ethnic Macedonians born after that date. Macedonia is a region of Bulgaria just like Thrace, Rhodope, Shopluk, and Dobrudja. These regions are all parts of Bulgarian territory, and my own region, North-Eastern Bulgaria, is on the opposite side of the country from Macedonia.

Political and Social Context

Historical and political factors have played a significant role in shaping the modern Bulgarian identity. Since the early 20th century, the term "Macedonian" has been associated with political movements seeking national independence. Bulgaria has a history of conflict with Greece and other countries over the region of Macedonia, leading to a complex and politically charged discourse around ethnic identity.

In my region, North-Eastern Bulgaria, we cannot consider ourselves ethnic Macedonians. The terms Thracians, Mysians, Northern Dobrudzians, or Rodopians are not significant identifiers for us. We are Bulgarians of the same quality, regardless of our regional origin. Many Macedonians in Bulgaria consider themselves to be Bulgarians, but they fear reprisals due to the Serbian rule. Others, such as non-Albanians, Turks, and Gypsies, are often seen as brainwashed Bulgarians, and their only fault is not wanting to accept the truth.

Understanding the complexities of ethnic and national identity requires a nuanced perspective. In the case of Bulgaria, the majority of the population identifies as ethnic Bulgarians, with a few exceptions. The issue of Macedonian identity remains politically sensitive, and it is crucial to approach this topic with an open mind and a willingness to understand different perspectives.

Keywords: Bulgarian identity, ethnic Macedonians, Macedonian region