Ferdinand I of Bulgaria was the Tsar of Bulgaria from 1887 to 1918. Born on February 26, 1861, he was a member of the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha dynasty. Ferdinand played a significant role in Bulgaria's political landscape, promoting modernization and national unity during his reign. He was known for his interest in culture and education, which helped shape Bulgaria's national identity. Ferdinand's reign saw Bulgaria's involvement in several conflicts, including the Balkan Wars and World War I. After the defeat in World War I, he abdicated in favor of his son, Boris III, in 1918. Ferdinand spent his later years in exile, passing away on September 10, 1948.