Marija Barămova Libri

Borders are typically seen as divisions between cultures, languages, and political systems. However, in Antiquity and the Middle Ages, they were viewed more as symbolic areas—contested zones rather than strict separations. The primary characteristic of these borders was contact rather than division. The Early Modern European society experienced significant changes, including the rise of the territorial state, major geographical discoveries, and the advent of modern cartography, which reshaped the understanding of borders. This era marked a transition from a loose concept of borders to a more defined notion of frontiers and spatial divisions. Despite the crystallization of religious, political, and ideological lines during this time, recent scholarship suggests that modern ideas of national frontiers do not entirely apply to the Early Modern period. This volume presents the papers from the conference “Bordering Early Modern Europe,” held in Sofia in March 2013, featuring contributions from nineteen historians. These essays build on previous research regarding European borders in the Early Modern period and offer fresh interpretations and insights into the theme of borders in Europe, paving the way for future exploration in this field.

If a power wishes to subdue a region, what can it do? Order its armies to annex it? Carve up the region into parts that are subsequently ruled by different great powers, or create new principalities as a tool for indirect power influence? Why not use ideology and economic strength to rule that same region instead? This book demonstrates how the European powers of the 16th-19th centuries oscillated between these different stances in their attitude towards the Balkans, while, at the same time, leaving enough space for the smaller regional players - states and individuals alike - to exercise their local power and influence. (Series: History: Research and Science / Geschichte: Forschung und Wissenschaft - Vol. 38) *** "The focus of these works is Ottoman, Habsburg, and Russian power and influence in the Balkans. . . . the pieces are well researched and address topics that not only shed light on the history of these three empires, but also, more generally, are important in understanding the issue of power in the early and modern periods. Recommended." - Choice, Vol. 51, No. 07, March 2014 Ã?Â?