In the aftermath of World War II, Bulgaria found itself in a period of intense political change and instability. With the end of the war, the Bulgarian Communist Party, aligned with Soviet interests, gradually took control of the government. To solidify their regime, they aimed to eliminate the monarchy, which they viewed as a remnant of the old order and an obstacle to socialist reforms. A referendum was held to gauge public support for this significant political shift. On September 9, Bulgarians were presented with the option of either preserving the monarchy or establishing a republic. Voter turnout was remarkably high, reflecting the urgency felt by the populace as they navigated the uncertainty of the post-war landscape.

The outcome of the referendum was overwhelmingly in favor of abolishing the monarchy. The votes were counted, revealing that over 90% of voters opted for a republic. The former king, Simeon II, who had been in power during World War II, went into exile, marking the end of centuries of monarchical rule in Bulgaria. This referendum not only catalyzed the immediate political change but also signaled the beginning of a communist era in Bulgaria, which would last for several decades. Additionally, the abolition of the monarchy led to significant social and economic changes, as the new government attempted to align the country more closely with Soviet practices and policies.