Alexander of Battenberg

Alexander I of Battenberg was the first prince of modern autonomous Bulgaria, serving from 1879 to 1886. Born in 1857, he was a nephew of Tsar Alexander II of Russia and served in the Russo-Turkish War, which led to Bulgaria's autonomy.1

Elected prince in 1879, Alexander I faced significant Russian interference and a liberal constitution he found problematic. He dissolved the national assembly in 1880 and suspended the constitution in 1881, assuming dictatorial powers. Relations with Russia deteriorated, leading him to restore the constitution in 1883.12

In 1885, the annexation of Eastern Rumelia by Bulgaria intensified tensions with Russia and led to war with Serbia, which Alexander I successfully repelled. However, a pro-Russian coup forced his abdication in August 1886. He briefly returned but abdicated permanently in September 1886 when he could not secure Russian support. He later served as a general in the Austrian Army.12