In the late 19th century, Bulgaria witnessed a period of national awakening and unification efforts, especially after the Liberation from Ottoman rule. Following the San Stefano Treaty in 1878, Bulgaria was established as a principality, but its territories remained divided, particularly with the presence of Eastern Rumelia. In an attempt to exploit this division, Serbia launched an attack on Bulgaria after the latter declared the unification of its lands. Bulgarian society rallied around the call to defend the newly unified state. Under the leadership of notable figures such as Tsar Ferdinand I and General Georgi Stoichkov, the Bulgarian forces prepared to repel the Serbian incursion. The Bulgarian army effectively coordinated its mobilization, with key battles occurring near the town of Slivnitsa. Utilizing superior tactics and local knowledge, the Bulgarian troops fought fiercely. Their resilience led to a stunning Bulgarian victory that surprised many observers and changed the dynamics of the region. This success not only preserved the unification of Bulgaria but also inspired a wave of nationalism and a sense of unity among various Bulgarian communities.