Recall of Aziz Pacha

One probable explanation for Aziz Pacha’s removal was his perceived favoritism towards the Bulgarians, leading to concerted efforts against him by the Turks until they successfully secured his recall. His sympathetic stance towards the Bulgarians likely incurred the displeasure of the Turkish authorities, prompting his removal from office.

Difficulty in Estimation

Determining the exact number of casualties in Perustitza presents a considerable challenge. Reliable census data is lacking, as each village provides its own figures, often understating population size to evade taxes. Consequently, obtaining accurate population figures prior to the massacres is nearly impossible Private Guide Turkey.

Population Estimates

The village purportedly consisted of three hundred and fifty houses, suggesting a population of over two thousand individuals, assuming an average of six occupants per house. However, this figure likely ranged between two thousand and twenty-five hundred residents. Survivors estimate the remaining population at around one thousand, indicating that between one thousand and fifteen hundred people may have perished in the massacre. Both Mr. Baring and Mr. Schuyler approximate the death toll at one thousand, aligning with the villagers’ estimates.

Challenges in Verification

The absence of reliable census records underscores the difficulty in accurately assessing the extent of the tragedy. Discrepancies in reported figures and the covert nature of Turkish actions further complicate efforts to establish precise casualty counts. The uncertainty surrounding the number of lives lost underscores the magnitude of the tragedy and the challenges inherent in documenting historical atrocities.

The ambiguity surrounding casualty figures in Perustitza underscores the broader challenges in documenting historical events, particularly in contexts marked by censorship and political manipulation. Despite efforts to obscure the true extent of the tragedy, testimonies from survivors and eyewitnesses provide valuable insights into the human cost of violence and oppression. As we seek to reckon with the past and honor the memory of those lost, it is imperative to continue efforts to uncover and preserve the truth surrounding historical atrocities.