The Macedonian Question and the Macedonians: A History

This book provides a comprehensive and dispassionate analysis of the Macedonian Question from 1878 until 1949, exploring the intertwined themes of Macedonian identity and the broader Eastern Question. It examines the shifting sands of the question, the rise of Macedonian nationhood, and the various disputes between Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia over Macedonia. The author also delves into the Greek-Macedonian name dispute, the Bulgarian-Macedonian dispute, the issue of the Macedonian language, and the Macedonian national historical narrative.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and impartial study delves into the intriguing Macedonian Question, spanning from 1878 to 1949, and explores the Macedonians and their neighbors from the 1890s to the present day, seamlessly intertwining these two themes. The Macedonian Question originated as a branch of the broader Eastern Question, which concerned the fate of the European remnants of the Ottoman Empire after its dissolution. Initially, Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia were the primary actors involved in this matter, as they sought to determine the destiny of the Slav-speaking population residing in geographical Macedonia. This population, the largest segment of which eventually formed a new nation, known as the Macedonians, posed a significant challenge to its three neighboring countries.

In his analysis, Alexis Heraclides delves into the ever-changing dynamics of the Macedonian Question, focusing on the competing claims of Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia over Macedonia during the 1870s to 1919. He also examines the emergence and evolution of the renowned Macedonian revolutionary organization, the VM(O)RO, as well as other organizations that played pivotal roles in shaping Macedonian nationhood and federal status. The author highlights the pivotal role of Titos in the establishment of Macedonian nationhood and his contribution to the federal status of the country. Additionally, he explores the ongoing Greek-Macedonian name dispute, which has persisted since 1991, examining the underlying reasons that have hindered a resolution for decades. The book also sheds light on the final Greek-Macedonian settlement, achieved through the 2018 Prespa Agreement, and the brief resolution of the Bulgarian-Macedonian dispute in 2017. Furthermore, it addresses the issue of the Macedonian language, the Macedonian national historical narrative, and the intriguing question of who the ancient Macedonians were and the enduring fascination with Alexander the Great.

This monograph serves as a vital resource for scholars engaged in research on the history of Macedonia. It provides a detailed and nuanced account of the complex events and issues that have shaped the country's past and present, offering valuable insights into its historical trajectory and its place in the broader regional context.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367653521