Периодичният печат в Карлово (1902–2024)
The Periodical Press in Karlovo (1902–2024)

Summary/Abstract: In the 19th century, Karlovo experienced accelerated economic, cultural and demographic development. The educational and cultural spheres grew rapidly during this period and established lasting traditions. Educated Revival Karlovians were frequent supporters, contributors and collaborators in the publication and editing of Bulgarian books and periodicals in the 19th century. However, the beginning of the periodical press in Karlovo came relatively late, after the establishment of the new Bulgarian state in 1902. The severe consequences of the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878, as well as the proximity to the centre of Eastern Rumelia – Plovdiv – had their influence on these processes. The appearance of the first newspaper in Karlovo, “Prosveta”, whose noble and genuine aims were of national importance, is a curious case, as are the remarkable personalities with whom it was associated. The first newspaper was the organ of the “Vasil Levski Learners’ Society”, and the spark that gave rise to this beginning provided a strong and meaningful impulse for the further development of the press in the town. Chronologically, the next two editions, “Stremska Dolina” and “Burya”, follow the fine example set by “Prosveta”. They embodied the close relationship between politics and media that was characteristic of the rest of the country, while at the same time curiously affirming non-partisanship in their program articles and a commitment to cultural and educational priorities. Interestingly, the first three newspapers also appear in a sense as municipal organs through their frequently published municipal news and announcements. Short-lived periodicals followed, with several years in between, reflecting the complex political and economic situation of strife and struggle in Bulgaria. Thewars between 1912 and 1918, along with the strict wartime censorship of the press and mobilization, together with regional problems, had a negative impact on the domestic press. This article provides an overview of all the periodicals printed in the town from the very beginning until today and examines the reasons and factors for the relatively late start of the most popular media at that time. It traces the path of the development of the Karlovo newspapers; the difficulties and interruptions that accompanied it in different periods; what are the characteristics of the printed publications in the city, their purpose, influence, politics and circulation. Finally, it will examine what trends stand out and what role political dynamics and historical developments in the country and the region, along with censorship, have had on the press in Karlovo.

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