Russian policy is changed, after Tsar Alexander…

Russian policy is changed, after Tsar Alexander II is assassinated in March 1881, to allow a grand national assembly to consider the constitutional changes desired by Bulgaria’s Prince Alexander.

The assassination has spurred conservatism in Russia, and the Bulgarian liberals have alarmed the Russians by refusing foreign economic aid.

To the dismay of the liberals, Russia intervenes in the election of the constitutional subranie, frightening voters into electing a group that passes the entire package of amendments.

Liberal influence is sharply reduced by amendments limiting the power of the subranie.

Casimir Erenroth, a Finn in Russian service who had earlier been charged with setting up the Bulgarian army, uses the Grand National Assembly, selected by rigged elections, to suspend the constitution and invest the prince with absolute powers for seven years.