Tonka Obretenova

The woman who created a home for the rebels

Who is she?

Tonka Obretenova, known as Baba Tonka, was a fighter for Bulgaria’s liberation, renowned for having sheltered and protected many of those involved in revolutionary activities before and during the April Uprising.

Why is she an overman?

Baba Tonka is an example of how a warm-hearted and dedicated woman can change the world. Her contribution to the national liberation movement is unparalleled, as she raised, protected, and inspired its most important figures.

Her courage and open-mindedness are key to her ability to truly help the rebels. Whatever she had to do—whether scolding the rebels, lying, or pretending to be drunk to divert attention—she did it, and thus she managed to save many lives for a long time.

Short biography:

1812 – 27 March 1893

Tonka Obretenova was born in the village of Cherven, in the Ruse region. She remained largely illiterate because she was a girl, despite her parents’ desire to provide her with an education. She married a merchant of her own choosing, which was unusual for the time. They had twelve children, only seven of whom survived.

She and her entire family became actively involved in the national liberation movement. Her children were members of the rebel groups and participated in organizing the revolt in Ruse. Her home became a safe haven for those preparing the uprising. She was personally responsible for the committee’s documentation.

We know more about her thanks to “Notes on the Bulgarian Uprisings” by Zahari Stoyanov, who was married to one of her daughters. He describes her as a woman with a playful disposition who knew how to survive in the complex circumstances leading up to the Liberation. She managed to win the Turks’ favor with jokes and feigned outrage toward the rebels, and this helped her negotiate exile instead of a death sentence for some of them.