Tsar Boris I

Tsar Boris I of Bulgaria reigned from 852 to 889 and is notable for converting Bulgaria to Christianity, which helped unify the diverse peoples within his kingdom and established a more cohesive Bulgarian identity. He embraced Orthodox Christianity, fostering a close relationship with the Byzantine Empire. His rule marked the beginning of the First Bulgarian Empire's cultural and political growth. Boris I also initiated the development of the Cyrillic alphabet, promoting literacy and scholarship in Bulgaria. His impact on the nation's religious and cultural landscape remains significant, making him a revered figure in Bulgarian history.