Boris I of Bulgaria

Boris I of Bulgaria, who ruled from 852 to 889, was a significant medieval leader known for converting Bulgaria to Christianity, which helped unify and modernize the nation. His conversion, which occurred around 864, marked the beginning of Bulgaria's alignment with Byzantine culture and religion. Boris I established the First Bulgarian Empire and promoted literacy and the Cyrillic alphabet, fostering a cultural renaissance. His reign laid the foundation for Bulgaria's influence in Eastern Europe, and he is often credited with shaping Bulgaria’s identity as a Christian state while navigating complex relations with powerful neighbors like the Byzantine Empire.