The first Bulgarian state, founded by Khan Asparuh in 681 CE, which dominated the Balkans for over three centuries until its conquest by Byzantine Emperor Basil II in 1018.
Conquered by the Byzantine Emperor Basil II ('Bulgaroktonos' — 'Bulgar-slayer') in 1018, ending the First Bulgarian Empire after his victory at the Battle of Kleidion in 1014 and subsequent campaigns that ended when Ivan Vladislav was killed at Dyrrhachium and his widow Maria negotiated surrender.
Classic English-language history of the First Bulgarian Empire, covering its origins, culture, and relations with Byzantium.
Scholarly analysis of Slavic identity formation in the Balkans, essential context for the founding of Bulgaria.