Vladimir of Bulgaria facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Vladimir-Rasate Владимир Расате
Knyaz of Bulgaria
Reign	889–893
Predecessor	Boris I
Successor	Simeon I
Born	850 AD
Died	before 900
House	Krum's dynasty
Father	Boris I
Mother	Maria (wife of Boris I of Bulgaria)

Vladimir-Rasate (also known as Vladimir Rasate) was a ruler, or Knyaz, of the First Bulgarian Empire. He ruled from 889 to 893. He was the son of Boris I, a very important Bulgarian leader.

Early Life and Rule

Vladimir-Rasate was the oldest son of Boris I. He was likely born before his father adopted Christianity.

Early Military Actions

Around 853 or 854, Vladimir led the Bulgarian army into Serbia. This was an attempt to get revenge for an earlier defeat. However, the Serbian army, led by Mutimir, defeated the Bulgarians. Vladimir and 12 important Bulgarian nobles were captured.

After this, Boris I and Mutimir made a peace agreement. Mutimir sent his sons to escort the captured Bulgarians back. They exchanged gifts as a sign of peace. Boris gave them "rich gifts," and he received "two slaves, two falcons, two dogs, and 80 furs."

Becoming Knyaz of Bulgaria

Vladimir became the ruler of Bulgaria when his father, Boris I, decided to retire. Boris I had ruled for 36 years and chose to go to a monastery. Boris I had adopted the name Mihail (Michael) after he became Christian.

Some old seals suggest that Boris I might have kept some power even after retiring. These seals have the words "Michael the Monk, who is archon of the Bulgarians."

Foreign Policy Changes

Vladimir-Rasate made a military agreement in 892. He teamed up with the East Frankish (German) King Arnulf of Carinthia. This alliance was against Great Moravia.

This move was different from his father's policies. Boris I had generally favored the Byzantine Empire. Vladimir's alliance was indirectly aimed against Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire.

Attempt to Restore Paganism

Vladimir-Rasate is mostly remembered for trying to bring back the old pagan religion in Bulgaria. He wanted to get rid of Christianity. This event is mentioned in a historical text called Didactic Gospel by Constantine of Preslav.

Vladimir started to remove Christian symbols and leaders. He saw Christianity as a way for the Byzantine Empire to control Bulgaria.

Boris I's Response

In 893, Boris I was very upset by his son's actions. He left the monastery and took back control. Boris I removed Vladimir from power. He then had Vladimir's eyes put out and placed him in a prison. After this, Vladimir's story disappears from history.

Council of Preslav

After removing Vladimir, Boris I placed his third son, Simeon, on the Bulgarian throne. This happened during an important meeting called the Council of Preslav. This council was a direct result of Vladimir-Rasate's failed attempt to bring back paganism.

Sources

143