Hristo G. Danov – the pioneer who transformed Bulgarian education

Imagine a time when a the Bulgarian nation’s identity was emerging, and knowledge was a powerful, revolutionary force. This was one of the most important periods in the country’s history, one that led to the creation of modern-day Bulgaria – the Bulgarian National Revival. During this pivotal period, Hristo G. Danov (1828–1911) emerged as a true visionary. Known as the “Bulgarian Gutenberg,” he didn’t just publish books; he ignited a movement that would bring education, culture, and a sense of unity to Bulgarians everywhere. Danov was an educator, a publisher, and an influential leader whose work helped to shape a modern Bulgarian identity and inspire generations to come.

A Passion for Learning – Danov’s Early Life and Teaching Journey

Danov was born in the mountain town of Klisura, where he grew up in a family of craftsmen. Life was far from easy, and after his father’s passing, he had to support his family by working as a craftsman himself. However, his thirst for knowledge led him back to school, and he went on to study at renowned schools in Panagyurishte and Koprivshtitsa. By the early 1850s, Danov was ready to share his passion for learning and began teaching in small Bulgarian towns, even founding a modern school in his hometown—a significant achievement, as it introduced a structured, class-based education that was new to the region.

His path took a surprising turn in 1856 when he traveled to Belgrade and discovered the power of publishing. By the following year, he had returned to Bulgaria, establishing a small bindery in Plovdiv with two colleagues. This modest bindery quickly expanded into Bulgaria’s first publishing house, marking the start of Danov’s legacy as the father of Bulgarian publishing.

The Rise of Hristo G. Danov’s Publishing House

Starting with calendars and almanacs, Danov’s publishing house grew at an impressive rate. By 1862, it had transformed into Hristo G. Danov & Co., publishing Bulgarian textbooks, literature, and even a newspaper that would continue publishing well into the future. This wasn’t just a business—it was a mission. Danov’s books were some of the first widely available in the Bulgarian language, uniting people across the country with shared ideas and knowledge.

By the 1870s, Danov’s publishing house had expanded beyond Bulgaria, with branches in Vienna and other key cities. His entrepreneurial vision brought books to Bulgarian communities throughout the region and helped create a shared sense of pride and identity at a crucial moment in the country’s history.

From Publishing to Politics – Danov as mayor of Plovdiv

Danov’s impact didn’t stop at publishing. After the April Uprising against Ottoman rule, he was briefly imprisoned for his efforts to promote a distinct Bulgarian identity. Yet his dedication only strengthened. In 1882, he joined the Eastern Rumelia Regional Assembly, where he played a key role in preparing Bulgaria for unification. A few years later, in 1897, he became mayor of Plovdiv, where he continued to serve his community in innovative ways.

As mayor, Danov transformed Plovdiv into a city of the future. He launched an ambitious project to reforest two of the city’s seven hills, creating what would later be named Danov Hill in his honor. This green initiative brought life to the once-bare Sahat Hill, turning it into a beautiful park space. He also commissioned the city’s first urban development plan, drafted by Czech-Bulgarian architect Josef Schnitter, which laid the groundwork for Plovdiv’s growth as a cultural and architectural landmark.

A Lasting Legacy – see Danov’s House in Plovdiv

Today, Danov’s legacy lives on in more ways than one. For those who want to glimpse his world firsthand, a visit to his home in Plovdiv is a must. Perched on the cliffs of Taksim Hill, it is one of the amazing Revival houses of Plovdiv that offers breathtaking views of the city. Furthermore, it houses an exhibition dedicated to Bulgarian publishing during the Revival period. This historical gem captures the essence of Danov’s mission and offers a peek into the world of 19th-century Bulgarian literature.

Hristo G. Danov’s story is one of resilience, passion, and vision. He laid the foundation for a modern, educated Bulgaria and inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps. His journey from a small-town teacher to a pioneering publisher and mayor reveals how one person’s dedication to learning and culture can truly change a nation.

Sources:

• Карагюлев, К. Книжовни трудове и език на Христо Г. Данов. Пловдив, 1905
• Барутчийски, С. Христо Г. Данов. Биографичен очерк. Пловдив, 1905
• Христо Г. Данов в PlovdivGuide.com Архив на оригинала от 2007-09-26 в Wayback Machine.
• Кметове на Пловдив Архив на оригинала от 2007-09-27 в Wayback Machine.
• Хаджиниколова, Елена. Книжарите на Хр. Г. Данов във Вардарска Македония и общественият живот в областта (70-те години на XIX в.), Македонски преглед, година XXII, 1999, кн. 2, 45 – 66 с.
• Георги Райчевски „Пловдивска Енциклопедия“, 1999
• Паметна плоча на Христо Г. Данов, Пловдив