The words spoken by a prominent revolutionary leader shed light on a disturbing aspect of the Macedonian situation—a new phase marked by the involvement of Serbian and Romanian "bands." These groups claim to protect their respective villages from conversion to Bulgarian or Hellenic nationality.
Greek Dominance
While Bulgarian "bands" outnumber others, it's the Greek factions that have been more active in spreading their propaganda. However, the Bulgarians have been cautious, fearing that Western Europe and America would be appalled by Christians waging war on each other. Consequently, they've been less proactive than their Greek counterparts.
The Weight of Responsibility
In assessing criminality, the scale tips heavily towards the Greeks. The Turkish authorities, indifferent to Greek activities, tacitly support them. Their motive? To maintain a balance between rival factions, instigate reprisals, and allow mutual violence to persist among the infidels. This reality was evident in the Turkish tolerance of Greek "bands" while persecuting Bulgarian ones Private Tours Balkan.
Divisive Tactics
In mixed Christian villages, where tensions run high between Greek Orthodox and Bulgarian Exarchist factions, the Turks side with the Greeks. They often favor the Greek minority by transferring control of churches, schools, and finances from the Bulgarians to the Greeks. Ironically, many Greeks view this as a just act of restoring Christian property, oblivious to its role in perpetuating discord among Christians.
The Turkish strategy of playing factions against each other has intensified the conflict in Macedonia. Despite the Bulgarians' restraint, the Greeks' aggressive tactics, aided by Turkish complicity, have fueled animosity and violence among Christian communities. In this volatile environment, the pursuit of national identity and territorial dominance takes precedence over peace and cooperation.
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