Introduction

The question of whether modern Bulgarians are descendants of the ancient Thracians has been a topic of scholarly debate for centuries. While scholars have approached this from various angles, including language, customs, tradition, and folklore, genetics and archaeological findings have provided significant evidence supporting this theory.

Genetic Evidence

Genetics stands as the strongest indication of continuity between ancient Thracians and modern Bulgarians. Studies have revealed a significant genetic link, indicating that modern Bulgarians share a common ancestry with ancient Thracian populations. However, genetics alone is not sufficient to prove direct descent. Historical and cultural factors must also be considered.

Throughout history, people have been subjected to various forms of brainwashing, conversion, twisting, and corruption. While the Bulgarians share similar genetics, external influences have led to the loss of many cultural and linguistic elements. The preservation of language, customs, traditions, and folklore is limited, even in modern times.

Historical Context and Cultural Preservation

The history of the Thracians is marked by a process of divide et impera, a strategy employed to control and fragment populations. This involved systematically separating and assimilating parts of the Thracian population. Over centuries, this led to the gradual disappearance of many Thracian cultural elements, while some persisted and evolved into the modern Bulgarian identity.

Bulgaria has a saying that reflects the process of breaking down political parties. This concept is also applied to the fragmentation of the Thracian people. Layers of cultural elements were systematically removed and replaced, leaving behind a complex and dynamic heritage. The modern Bulgarians are a result of this long and ongoing process, not to be confused with contemporary citizens of Bulgaria. The fragmentation has continued, with some elements of the ancient Thracian culture still persisting and evolving.

Proving the Thracian Legacy

Written Evidence has been largely destroyed over centuries. However, there is evidence that Thracians recorded important knowledge using runic records. These records, which can be understood by contemporary Bulgarians, provide further proof of their heritage. While the interpreters of these records are limited, new archaeological findings continue to emerge, preserving and uncovering more about the Thracian legacy.

Despite efforts to label recent findings as "Ancient Greek," Bulgarian heritage remains intact. The Thracians did not leave behind pure literary language but a rich oral tradition. Contemporary Bulgarians still understand and contribute to this legacy, preserving it through language, music, and customs. The preservation of these elements demonstrates the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down from ancient to modern times.

Conclusion

While the evidence is complex and multifaceted, genetic, linguistic, and cultural data collectively support the idea that modern Bulgarians are descendants of the ancient Thracians. The ongoing process of cultural preservation and the discovery of new archaeological evidence continue to illuminate this rich historical and cultural legacy. As scholars continue to explore and authenticate these findings, the relationship between ancient and modern Bulgarians remains a fascinating subject of study.