Aleko Ivanitsov Konstantinov, also known by the pseudonym Shastlivetsa, was a distinguished Bulgarian writer, lawyer, and influential figure, renowned as the pioneer of organized tourism in Bulgaria. Born on January 13, 1863 (Old Style: January 1), in Svishtov, he hailed from a prominent family—his father, Ivanitsa Hadzhikonstantinov, was a well-known merchant in Svishtov. Through his maternal lineage, Aleko was connected to the esteemed Shishmanovi family of Vidin.
Even in his student years, Aleko Konstantinov showcased a preference for Petko Karavelov, a key advocate of parliamentarism and democracy. He collaborated on the St. Kliment Library magazine that Karavelov had established. A member of the Democratic Party led by Petko Karavelov, Konstantinov actively engaged in formulating the party’s program. He contributed to “Zname,” the party’s organ, with feuilletons, travelogues, additions, and articles from its inception in 1894.
