# data[].attributes.body
“Although the crisis was resolved without immediate warfare, the resulting sharp relations between Serbia and Austria-Hungary and Russia's umbrage at having been duped and humiliated contributed to the outbreak of World War I. The Balkan Wars were a bloody series of conflicts in Southeastern Europe du- ring 1912-1913.”

# data[].attributes.headline
In case I forget- conflict that catalyzed war

# data[].attributes.subject
In case I forget- conflict that catalyzed war

# data[].attributes.body
The Austro-Serbian conflict that played a crucial role in triggering World War I was sparked by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914. Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, and his assassination was carried out by Gavrilo Princip, a Bosnian Serb nationalist associated with a secret organization known as the Black Hand

# data[].attributes.body
Nationalism and Ethnic Tensions: The Balkan Wars heightened nationalist aspirations and ethnic tensions in the region. The redrawing of borders and the emergence of new states fueled the desire for self-determination among various ethnic and national groups. This, in turn, led to ethnic rivalries and conflicts that had the potential to escalate.

# data[].attributes.body
During this crisis, the states that signed the 1856 Treaty of Paris had the opportunity to interfere in the internal affairs of the Ottoman Empire, each for different purposes, based on the ninth article of the same treaty. All attempts to resolve the issue in a just and equitable manner by calming down the uprising were ultimately unsuccessful due to Russian intrigues aimed at disintegrating the Ottoman Empire and the provocation and encouragement of the Slavs in the Balkans by the extreme pan-Slavist Prime Minister Gorchakoff. Finally, in July 1876, the Serbian and Montenegrin Principalities launched an attack against the Ottoman Empire, ostensibly under the pretext of protecting their fellow citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but in reality with the aim of gaining full independence and expanding their lands, again with the encouragement of Russia.

# data[].attributes.headline
Tsar to Kaiser, July 29, 1:00 A.M. — Peter's Court Palais, 29 July 1914—Sa Majesté l'EmpereurNeues Palais

# data[].attributes.subject
Tsar to Kaiser, July 29, 1:00 A.M. — Peter's Court Palais, 29 July 1914—Sa Majesté l'EmpereurNeues Palais

# data[].attributes.body
“Am glad you are back. In this serious moment, I appeal to you to help me. An ignoble war has been declared to a weak country. The indignation in Russia shared fully by me is enormous. I foresee that very soon I shall be overwhelmed by the pressure forced upon me and be forced to take extreme measures which will lead to war. To try and avoid such a calamity as a European war I beg you in the name of our old friendship to do what you can to stop your allies from going too far.”

# data[].attributes.body
“The Balkans had been in a state of pandemonium especially since the early 1900s, with years of guerrilla warfare in Macedonia followed by the Young Turk Revolution and the protracted Bosnian Crisis. The wars of 1914-1918 pe- riod in the Balkans, turned out to be only the next phase of political, national and economical rivalry in this important part of European continent. The Otto- man Empire was deeply affected from this situation in Europe.4 This Empire’s disintegration was hastened after the Young Turk revolution of 1908. The Bal- kan nations’ main goal in their foreign policies was to achieve theirs national unification. ”

# data[].attributes.headline
Derived from a German translation: BISMARCK'S IDEA OF DIVISION OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE *Dr. BEKİR SITKI BAYKAL Associate Professor of History

# data[].attributes.subject
Derived from a German translation: BISMARCK'S IDEA OF DIVISION OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE *Dr. BEKİR SITKI BAYKAL Associate Professor of History

# data[].attributes.body
This is a secondary source addressing Bismarck’s idea of division of the Ottoman Empire

# data[].attributes.body
Alliance Systems: The Balkan Wars had a profound impact on the alliance systems in Europe. The emergence of new states in the Balkans and the changing balance of power led to shifts in alliances and diplomatic maneuvers. These changes in alliances and alignments played a role in the broader European context and set the stage for the complex web of alliances that contributed to World War I.

# data[].attributes.body
Conflict Over Territorial Gains: The Balkan Wars resulted in territorial gains and losses for various states. Disputes over these gains and concerns about the balance of power in the region created tensions that could spill over into a larger conflict.

# data[].attributes.body
Bismarck's diplomacy was characterized by his efforts to maintain a balance of power and prevent the outbreak of a general European war. His main focus was on isolating France and avoiding conflicts that could lead to a coalition against Germany. He achieved this through the creation of alliances with Austria-Hungary and Russia (the Triple Alliance).

The Balkan Wars, which occurred in 1912 and 1913, were a series of conflicts involving several Balkan states and the Ottoman Empire. These wars led to a significant redrawing of borders and the weakening of the Ottoman Empire's presence in the Balkans. The division of the Ottoman Empire's territories in the Balkans had several consequences that contributed to the outbreak of World War I:

# data[].attributes.body
This treaty, signed on May 30, 1913, formalized the Balkan League's territorial redistribution after their victory over the Ottoman Empire. However, the discord over the division of the spoils quickly emerged among the victors. Greece, Serbia, Montenegro, and Bulgaria had conflicting interests in the region, leading to rising hostilities and disputes. This territorial rearrangement laid the groundwork for future disputes and tensions among the Balkan states and their neighbors.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.proquest.com/docview/1545346702

Secondary source

# data[].attributes.body
Caused the Berlin Congress of 1878( result of the Bosnia-Herzegovina Rebellion)- page 1

# data[].attributes.headline
Russian Intrigues and Pan-Slacist Agendas:

# data[].attributes.subject
Russian Intrigues and Pan-Slacist Agendas:

# data[].attributes.body
The document highlights Russia's active role in the Eastern Crisis, aiming to disintegrate the Ottoman Empire and encourage the Slavs in the Balkans. This aligns with the pan-Slavist Prime Minister Gorchakoff's efforts to provoke and support Slavic uprisings. The tension created by Russian interference in the Balkans and its desire to weaken the Ottoman Empire could be seen as a precursor to broader international conflicts.

Quote 1: "All attempts to resolve the issue in a just and equitable manner by calming down the uprising were ultimately unsuccessful due to Russian intrigues aim of disintegrating the Ottoman Empire and the provocation and encouragement of the Slavs in the Balkans by the extreme pan-Slavist Prime Minister Gorchakoff."(Ilktesrin 1876 page 1)

# data[].attributes.body
The document mentions the Serbian and Montenegrin Principalities launching an attack against the Ottoman Empire in 1876, ostensibly to protect their fellow citizens. This move, supported by Russia, escalated tensions and eventually led to a military response by the Ottoman government. The involvement of multiple states in the Balkans created a complex web of alliances and hostilities, contributing to the international tensions that would later explode in WWI.

Quote 2: "In July 1876, the Serbian and Montenegrin Principalities launched an attack against the Ottoman Empire, ostensibly under the pretext of protecting their fellow citizens in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but in reality with the aim of gaining full independence and expanding their lands, again with the encouragement of Russia."(Ilktesrin 1876 page 1)

# data[].attributes.headline
Bismarck's Diplomacy and the Eastern Issue

# data[].attributes.subject
Bismarck's Diplomacy and the Eastern Issue

# data[].attributes.body
Bismarck, recognizing the potential for conflict in the Eastern Crisis, sought a diplomatic solution to avoid upsetting the balance of power in Europe. His attempts to navigate the complex relationships between Russia, Austria-Hungary, and England demonstrate the intricate web of alliances and tensions that would later contribute to the outbreak of WWI.

Quote 3: "How important were these considerations to Bismarck's Russian friendship? It is clearly understood that he intends to do so and the place Turkey takes in German politics."

# data[].attributes.headline
Source: The Official Report of the Balkan Wars 1912-1913

# data[].attributes.subject
Source: The Official Report of the Balkan Wars 1912-1913

# data[].attributes.body
Source overview: This primary source provides an official perspective on the events during the Balkan Wars, including details on the military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and the aftermath. It may offer insights into the immediate consequences of the First Balkan War and its impact on the geopolitical landscape.

# data[].attributes.headline
Diplomatic Documents Relating to the Outbreak of the European War

# data[].attributes.subject
Diplomatic Documents Relating to the Outbreak of the European War

# data[].attributes.body
This collection of diplomatic documents covers the period leading up to World War I(Primary). It includes official communications, treaties, and diplomatic exchanges among major European powers. Examining the specific mentions and discussions related to the Balkan Wars could shed light on the extent to which these conflicts contributed to international tensions.

# data[].attributes.body
Following Serbia's request for mercy, Russia was looking for ways to pressure the Ottoman Government for an immediate armistice and wanted to give the impression that it was acting on behalf of Europe.

From the very beginning, the Ottoman government not only agreed to an armistice, but also insisted on the determination of peace conditions along with the armistice and the final settlement of the issue in accordance with the rights granted to it by its military success. Indeed, the Ottoman government was in great need of urgent peace and internal order at that time. Because that interval is II. The sultanate changes that led to Abdulhamid's accession to the throne were made, and those who wanted to establish a constitutional administration in the country took power.

# data[].attributes.body
In June 1875, an incident broke out between Ottoman collectors and Christian subjects who avoided paying taxes in the town of Nüvesin, within the province of Herzegovina, and since the Ottoman government did not attach much importance to it at the beginning, it gradually grew and ended with the Bosnia-Herzegovina Rebellion, which was called the Eastern Depression in history, and ended with the Berlin Congress of 1878. It was the result of the crisis.

# data[].attributes.body
Since the end of 1870s the Germany's empowerment; its engagement with the acquisiti- on of colonies in various parts of the world and the close relationships it has with the Ottoman Empire since 1890 attracted the attention of Britain, France and Russia. These states developed a strong interest in the region, concerned about what might happen if the Ottoman Empire disintegrated. They referred to this dilemma as the "Eastern Question" and each of them developed their own foreign policy objectives.

# data[].attributes.body
Since 1908, the peace had been threatened on two occasions and both timesaverted by the last-minute resolve of European statesmen. The disin- tegration ofTurkey's Balkan empire was leaving a vacuum that both Austria- Hungary(backed by Germany) and the Slav succession state of Serbia (backed by Russia and by extension France) sought to fill.

# data[].attributes.body
“The diplomatic destruction of the region that ensued under the guidance of Bismarck (1815 - 1898) ruled out the creation of a compatible pattern of states. The Balkans had been in a state of pandemonium especially since the early 1900s, with years of guerrilla warfare in Macedonia followed by the Young Turk Revolution and the protracted Bosnian Crisis. The wars of 1914-1918 pe- riod in the Balkans, turned out to be only the next phase of political, national and economical rivalry in this important part of European continent. “

# data[].attributes.body
In July 1908 a plot of officers in the Ottoman army, led by Enver Pasha, took the control of the Empire and announced a program of reforms. They called themselves the Committee for Unity and Progress, but were popularly known as the Young Turks. They anno- unced the restoration of the 1876 Constitution. This Constitution had never served as the basis for Ottoman government. They were especially eager to in- fuse among all the various peoples of the Ottoman Empire a sense of Ottoman identity, and thus foil its further disintegration. In July 1908, with the proclamation of the II. Constitution (II. Mesrutiyet) in the Ottoman Empire the Austria-Hungary had to move quickly for the an- nexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, because together with the Constitutional Era it was established the Parliament and Bosnia and Herzegovina was still counted from the Ottoman Empire

# data[].attributes.body
The Austrians and Russian, rivals for Great Power domination in the Balkans, attempted to achieve some of their goals before the Young Turk reforms took effect. By a rescript of October 7, 1908, Austria-Hungary annexed Bosnia and Herzegovina. From this annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina there were three states that was effected the bilateral relations with the Austria-Hungary: Ottoman Empire, Serbia and Russia. Izvolsky was unprepared for such imme- diate action and he couldn't control the strong popular opposition to the an- nexation. But Russia failed to secure a strong support from its ally France and could not be playing against both Austria-Hungary and Germany for Serbia's sensitivities. In March, 1909 Izvolsky notified Germany that Russia accepted Austria's annexation.

# data[].attributes.body
Serbia geographically and ethnically was related to Bosnia and Herzegovi- na. It was outraged by the annexation. It demanded that Austria cede a portion of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Serbia. Austria-Hungary was tightly supported by its ally Germany that's why it threatened to invade Serbia if that country persisted in its demands. Although the crisis was resolved without immediate warfare, the resulting sharp relations between Serbia and Austria-Hungary and Russia's umbrage at having been duped and humiliated contributed to the outbreak of World War I.

# data[].attributes.body
The Balkan Wars were a bloody series of conflicts in Southeastern Europe du- ring 1912-1913. The Balkan wars were a result of the collapsing and retreating Ottoman Empire who had control of the area at the time. The complex and obscure Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 represent the beginning of an era in Eu- ropean history dominated by nationalism and conflict. These wars were the first concerted effort by the Balkan peoples to emulate the Italian and German examples and establish large nationalist states.The complex and obscure Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 represent the beginning of an era in Eu- ropean history dominated by nationalism and conflict. These wars were the first concerted effort by the Balkan peoples to emulate the Italian and German examples and establish large nationalist states.

# data[].attributes.body
The First Balkan War was declared by this league in October, 1912. This war broke out between a coalition of Bulgaria, Greece, Montenegro, and Serbia and their former ruler, the Ottoman Empire.Until 1913, the Bulgarians looked to Russia as their Great-Power patron.

This was because after the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1888, Russia managed to establish an autonomous Bulgarian sta- te. From being deflated by the Austrians at the Bosnian crisis, Russia sought to gain the upper hand by creating a Russophile "Slavic block" in the Balkans. The "Slavic block" would be directed against both, Austria-Hungary and the Otto- mans. Consequently, Russian diplomacy began pressuring the two countries, Serbia and Bulgaria, to reach a compromise and form an alliance.

Maybe think proxy war between Russia and Austria-Hungary?

# data[].attributes.headline
Proxy war between Austria-Hungary and Russia?

# data[].attributes.subject
Proxy war between Austria-Hungary and Russia?

# data[].attributes.body
This was because after the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1888, Russia managed to establish an autonomous Bulgarian sta- te. From being deflated by the Austrians at the Bosnian crisis, Russia sought to gain the upper hand by creating a Russophile "Slavic block" in the Balkans. The "Slavic block" would be directed against both, Austria-Hungary and the Otto- mans. Consequently, Russian diplomacy began pressuring the two countries, Serbia and Bulgaria, to reach a compromise and form an alliance.

# data[].attributes.body
Another issue that initiated the formation of the League was the Alba nian Uprising in 1911. The plans about the negotiations between Serbia and Bulgaria proved that progress paralleled the success of the Albanian revolt in Skopje and Monastir obligating the Ottomans to recognize the autonomy of Albania in June, 1912. The Albanian rebellion in 1911 presaged radical chan- ges in the balance of power in the Balkans. The Great Powers, particularly Italy and Austria-Hungary, were concerned with Albania's fate while the neighbou- ring Balkan states had territorial aspirations in the same region

# data[].attributes.body
In December, 1912 a cease-fire interrupted the fighting until January 1913. The participants in the First Balkan War on 30 May 1913, signed a preparatory peace treaty in London. As a result of the war, almost all remaining European territories of the Ottoman Empire were captured and partitioned among the allies. The west of the Enez-Kiyiköy line was ceded to the Balkan League, ac- cording to the status quo at the time of the armistice.

# data[].attributes.body
The First World War took place only about one year after Second Balkan War. That time in almost all Balkan nationalist movements the elements of a revolutionary plot were present. Extremely romantic discourses of violence and terror had played a major role in the realization of certain targets and go- als. There were common the secret societies which elaborate ceremonies with peculiar symbols, flags, with oaths.

Before First World War, Serbs increased the national sensitivities and led the establishment of two associations: Narodna Odbrana (National Defense, 1908) and the other commonly known as the Black Hand with the name Uje- dinjenj Ili Smrt (Union or Death, 1911). The National Defense was formed fol- lowing the annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina by Austria-Hungary in 1908. When the army officers found the National Defense very passive in the relati- ons with the Dual Monarchy, they fonded the Black Hand in 1911.

# data[].attributes.headline
Tie to Balkan war- assassination of Archduke Ferdinand 

# data[].attributes.subject
Tie to Balkan war- assassination of Archduke Ferdinand 

# data[].attributes.body
The scintilla that started World War I was the assassination of Austria's Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie on June 28, 1914 while Ferdinand was visiting the city of Sarajevo. This visit was poorly planned and they hadn't taken adequate guards to protect the guests. It was the anniversary of the Battle of Kosovo and historically this has been the Serbian national holi- day (Vidova Dan). The assassination of the Archduke Ferdinand actually was performed by a Bosnian revolutionary called Gavrilo Princip. The assassins of that time were all extreme Serb nationalists.

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by a Serb nationalist was viewed as a great excuse to attack Austria-Hungary's troublesome neighbor, Serbia. The assassination in Sarajevo was only useful pretext "to settle ac- counts" and make "definitive and total settlement" with Serbia. Instead of reacting immediately to the incident, Austria-Hungary made sure they had the counterfront of Germany. In 1914 Austria-Hungary declared war to Serbia in the situation of the guarantee on strong and loyal support from the side of German Empire. In consequence, Russia could not accept possible Serbian defeat and full Vienna's domination in the Balkans. Serbia get the support from Russia.

GREAT POWER COMPETITION

# data[].attributes.body
“both governments, Austro- Hungary and Serbia, believed that their prestige and credibility were on the line, not only in the international community, but also at home. On the in- ternational stage, both sides were one defeat away from being marginalized: Austria-Hungary had no intention of replacing the Ottoman Empire as the "Sick Man of Europe" and Serbia refused to be treated as a protectorate. On the other hand, these governments believed that they were in a strong posi- tion to win if war came, because the Austrians had German backing and the Serbs had promises from Russia. Neither side considered the chance that the war would spread across Europe. And above all no one foresaw what the World War would mean, so there was no fear of any side”

# data[].attributes.body
The period between 1903-1914 marked rejuvenation in Serbian nationa- lism. The period between 1912 and 1944 was full of irredentist wars and inter- nal political turmoil. By 1900 Serbia and Greece were the major territorial ri- vals.30 The Serbian government in December 1914 raised the vague program of a union of the South Slav peoples. Serbia's leaders and many of its intellectu- als viewed this prospect as a form of "Greater Serbia", an expansion of Serbia. In 1914, the Serbian government stated that, "the struggle for the liberation and unification of all our captive brethren Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes" (Nish Declaration December 7, 1914) would be one of its chief war aims.31 Serbia had sustained most territory of northern and central Macedonia and also direct border with Montenegro (Novi Pazar). The Corfu Declaration of July 20, 1917 outlined the basic structure of the future South Slav state. The Serbian govern- ment and the Yugoslav Committee members agreed to form a parliamentary monarchy under the Serb Karadjordjevic dynasty; some local autonomies that will work based on social and economic conditions and a constituent assembly that will adopt a constitution by a numerically qualified majority.

# data[].attributes.body
In the early phases of World War I Serbia repeled two Austrian invasi- ons, counterattacking into Bosnia and Hungary. Its armies also reoccupied the Northeastern and central Albania. But a massive Austro-German attack in October 1915, combined with Bulgaria's entry into the war, spells defeat.

# data[].attributes.body
The Balkan Wars not only impacted the territorial control but also sowed the seeds of future tensions.

Quote: “Rather than surrender, the Serbian army and many civilians escaped through the Albanian mountains to the sea suffering tragic losses. Nearly the entire country is under harsh occupation from late 1915 to the end of the war. Overall, a fifth of the population perishes.”

# data[].attributes.headline
Political Turmoil and International Involcement

# data[].attributes.subject
Political Turmoil and International Involcement

# data[].attributes.body
The war drew in different factions within these regions. The involvement of Greece in the conflict was influenced by political contradictions and interventions by the Allies.

Quote:“Greece entered the war on the Allied side only in June 1917 after contradictions and ongoing interventions by the Allies.”

This exemplifies how political turmoil and international pressures impacted Balkan states' decisions.

# data[].attributes.headline
Impact on Neighboring Nations and Global Implications

# data[].attributes.subject
Impact on Neighboring Nations and Global Implications

# data[].attributes.body
Balkan Wars didn't confine their consequences to local boundaries.

Quoted:“The settlements with Austria (St Germain), Hungary (Trianon), Bulgaria (Neuilly), and Turkey (Sevres) were instrumental in fomenting the outbreak of World War II, the Holocaust, and five decades of Soviet hegemony in eastern Europe.”

# data[].attributes.headline
Correspondence and Diplomatic Relations: 

# data[].attributes.subject
Correspondence and Diplomatic Relations: 

# data[].attributes.body
Letters and communications between the involved nations indicate the underlying tensions and growing rivalries. Private correspondences and diplomatic negotiations surrounding the redistribution of territories following the Balkan Wars illustrate the emergence of conflicting national interests, particularly in the strategic and contested regions. These diplomatic discussions and negotiations highlight the fragility of the post-war peace.

# data[].attributes.body
The power dynamics within Europe were significantly affected by the Balkan conflict. The territorial gains and losses resulting from the Balkan Wars reshaped the balance of power in the region. The alliances and rivalries that formed among the Balkan states and other European powers, influenced by concerns over territorial expansion and control, further heightened the tension. For instance, Russia and Austria-Hungary found themselves at odds due to conflicting ambitions regarding the Balkans.

# data[].attributes.body
The Balkan Wars set the stage for the July Crisis of 1914. The unresolved issues from these conflicts, combined with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in Sarajevo, provided the spark that ignited a broader European conflict. The July Crisis marked the rapid escalation of tensions, where alliances were invoked, and ultimatums were issued, leading to the outbreak of World War I.

# data[].attributes.headline
Británica- small nations as the world war powers

# data[].attributes.subject
Británica- small nations as the world war powers

# data[].attributes.body
The Agadir Incident of 1911, moreover, revealed that the two great-power groupings, the Triple Alliance and the Triple Entente, were evenly balanced, so that the small powers might exercise some measure of individual initiative.

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Balkan-Wars

# data[].attributes.body
The Second Balkan War began when Serbia, Greece, and Romania quarreled with Bulgaria over the division of their joint conquests in Macedonia. On June 1, 1913, Serbia and Greece formed an alliance against Bulgaria, and the war began on the night of June 29–30, 1913, when King Ferdinand of Bulgaria ordered his troops to attack Serbian and Greek forces in Macedonia. The Bulgarian offensive, benefiting by surprise, was initially successful, but Greek and Serbian defenders retired in good order.

The Second Balkan War began when Serbia, Greece, and Romania quarreled with Bulgaria over the division of their joint conquests in Macedonia. On June 1, 1913, Serbia and Greece formed an alliance against Bulgaria, and the war began on the night of June 29–30, 1913, when King Ferdinand of Bulgaria ordered his troops to attack Serbian and Greek forces in Macedonia. The Bulgarian offensive, benefiting by surprise, was initially successful, but Greek and Serbian defenders retired in good order.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Balkan-Wars

# data[].attributes.body
The political consequences of the wars were considerable. Apart from Turkey, the real loser was Austria-Hungary. The partitioning of the sanjak of Novi Pazar between Serbia and Montenegro made it impossible in the subsequent crisis of June–July 1914 for Austria-Hungary to intervene in the Balkans. The Austro-Hungarian ultimatum to Serbia on July 23, 1914, was thus made to appear as naked aggression. The wars likewise altered the structure of alliances in the Balkans. Dissatisfied Bulgaria henceforth looked to Austria-Hungary for support, whereas Romania tended to move out of the influence of the Triple Alliance and toward the Triple Entente. The Turks, moreover, began to put their house in order and secured in November 1913 the services of German Gen. Otto Liman von Sanders with a group of technical advisers to strengthen the organization of their army.

# data[].attributes.headline
Impact on Austria-Hungary and Serbia relationship

# data[].attributes.subject
Impact on Austria-Hungary and Serbia relationship

# data[].attributes.body
The most alarming aspect of the war was the growth of tension between Austria-Hungary and Serbia. Serbia had extensive claims upon Albanian territory. Having obtained an assurance of German support, Austria-Hungary delivered an ultimatum on October 17, 1913, to compel Serbia to withdraw from the Albanian borderlands. This, however, did not solve for Austria-Hungary the Southern Slav question, which emerged again in an acute form with the assassination of the Austrian archduke Franz Ferdinand by a Serb on June 28, 1914, in Sarajevo, Bosnia.

# data[].attributes.body
The First Balkan War was fought between the members of the Balkan League—Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Montenegro—and the Ottoman Empire. The Balkan League was formed under Russian auspices in the spring of 1912 to take Macedonia away from Turkey, which was already involved in a war with Italy. The league was able to field a combined force of 750,000 men. Montenegro opened hostilities by declaring war on Turkey on October 8, 1912, and the other members of the league followed suit 10 days later.

The Balkan allies were soon victorious. In Thrace the Bulgarians defeated the main Ottoman forces, advancing to the outskirts of Constantinople and laying siege to Adrianople (Edirne). In Macedonia the Serbian army achieved a great victory at Kumanovo that enabled it to capture Bitola and to join forces with the Montenegrins and enter Skopje. The Greeks, meanwhile, occupied Salonika (Thessaloníki) and advanced on Ioánnina. In Albania the Montenegrins besieged Shkodër and the Serbs entered Durrës.

√

# data[].attributes.headline
Pushing the triple Alliance? Find source that tension lead to formation then use article 4

# data[].attributes.subject
Pushing the triple Alliance? Find source that tension lead to formation then use article 4

# data[].attributes.body
ARTICLE 4. In case a Great Power non-signatory to the present Treaty should threaten the security of the states of one of the High Contracting Parties, and the threatened Party should find itself forced on that account to make war against it, the two others bind themselves to observe towards their Ally a benevolent neutrality. Each of them reserves to itself, in this case, the right to take part in the war, if it should see fit, to make common cause with its Ally.

https://net.lib.byu.edu/estu/wwi/1914m/tripall2.html.bak

# data[].attributes.body
In summary, the First Balkan War, as outlined in the document, set the stage for international tensions by involving multiple states, driven by regional conflicts and the ambitions of major powers like Russia. The diplomatic maneuvers of Bismarck and the complex relationships between European nations during this period foreshadowed the intricate alliances and rivalries that would eventually lead to the outbreak of World War I.

# data[].attributes.body
The Kaiser's letters to the Tsar, copied from the government archives in Petrograd, and brought from Russia by Isaac Don Levine, ed., with an introduction by N.F. Grant. London, Hodder and Soughton Ltd, 1920

The "Willy-Nicky telegrams" refer to the correspondence between Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany (Willy) and Tsar Nicholas II of Russia (Nicky) during the July Crisis of 1914, the period leading up to the outbreak of World War I. While these telegrams primarily focus on the broader diplomatic tensions in Europe, they can provide insights into how the Balkan Wars contributed to the atmosphere of international tension. The telegrams are part of a larger context, and interpreting them requires considering various factors:

# data[].attributes.headline
Kaiser to Tsar, July 29, 1:45 A.M.—This and the previous telegraph crossed.—28 July 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Kaiser to Tsar, July 29, 1:45 A.M.—This and the previous telegraph crossed.—28 July 1914

# data[].attributes.body
“
It is with the gravest concern that I hear of the impression which the action of Austria against Serbia is creating in your country. The unscrupulous agitation that has been going on in Serbia for years has resulted in the outrageous crime, to which Archduke Francis Ferdinand fell a victim. The spirit that led Serbians to murder their own king and his wife still dominates the country. You will doubtless agree with me that we both, you and me, have a common interest as well as all Sovereigns to insist that all the persons morally responsible for the dastardly murder should receive their deserved punishment. In this case politics plays no part at all.

On the other hand, I fully understand how difficult it is for you and your Government to face the drift of your public opinion. Therefore, with regard to the hearty and tender friendship which binds us both from long ago with firm ties, I am exerting my utmost influence to induce the Austrians to deal straightly to arrive to a satisfactory understanding with you. I confidently hope that you will help me in my efforts to smooth over difficulties that may still arise.

Your very sincere and devoted friend and cousin

Willy”

# data[].attributes.headline
Kaiser to Tsar, July 29, 6:30 P.M.Berlin, 29. July 19

# data[].attributes.subject
Kaiser to Tsar, July 29, 6:30 P.M.Berlin, 29. July 19

# data[].attributes.body
“
I received your telegram and share your wish that peace should be maintained. But as I told you in my first telegram, I cannot consider Austria's action against Servia an "ignoble" war. Austria knows by experience that Servian promises ono paper are wholly unreliable. I understand its action must be judged as trending to get full guarantee that the Servian promises shall become real facts. This my reasoning is borne out by the statement of the Austrian cabinet that Austria does not want to make any territorial conquests at the expense of Servia. I therefore suggest that it would be quite possible for Russia to remain a spectator of the austro-servian conflict without involving Europe in the most horrible war she ever witnessed. I think a direct understanding between your Government and Vienna possible and desirable, and as I already telegraphed to you, my Government is continuing its exercises to promote it. Of course military measures on the part of Russia would be looked upon by Austria as a calamity we both wish to avoid and jeopardize my position as mediator which I readily accepted on your appeal to my friendship and my help.

Willy”

# data[].attributes.headline
Tsar to Kaiser, July 29, 8:20 P.M.Peter's Court Palace, 29 July 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Tsar to Kaiser, July 29, 8:20 P.M.Peter's Court Palace, 29 July 1914

# data[].attributes.body
Thanks for your telegram conciliatory and friendly. Whereas official message presented today by your ambassador to my minister was conveyed in a very different tone. Beg you to explain this divergency! It would be right to give over the Austro-servian problem to the Hague conference. Trust in your wisdom and friendship.

Your loving Nick

# data[].attributes.headline
Tsar to Kaiser, July 30, 1:20 A.M.—Peter's Court Palais, 30 July 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Tsar to Kaiser, July 30, 1:20 A.M.—Peter's Court Palais, 30 July 1914

# data[].attributes.body
Thank you heartily for your quick answer. Am sending Tatischev this evening with instructions. The military measures which have now come into force were decided five days ago for reasons of defence on account of Austria's preparations. I hope from all my heart that these measures won't in any way interfere with your part as mediator which I greatly value. We need your strong pressure on Austria to come to an understanding with us.

Nicky

# data[].attributes.headline
Kaiser to Tsar, July 30, 1:20 A.M.Berlin, 30. July 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Kaiser to Tsar, July 30, 1:20 A.M.Berlin, 30. July 1914

# data[].attributes.body
Best thanks for telegram. It is quite out of the question that my ambassadors language could have been in contradiction with the tenor of my telegram. Count Pourtalès was instructed to draw the attention of your government to the danger & grave consequences involved by a mobilisation; I said the same in my telegram to you. Austria has only mobilised against  Servia & only a part of her army. If, as it is now the case, according to the communication by you & your Government, Russia mobilises against Austria, my rôle as mediator you kindly intrusted me with, & which I accepted at you[r] express prayer, will be endangered if not ruined. The whole weight of the decision lies solely on you[r] shoulders now, who have to bear the responsibility for Peace or War.

Willy

# data[].attributes.headline
Kaiser to Tsar, July 31Berlin, 31. July 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Kaiser to Tsar, July 31Berlin, 31. July 1914

# data[].attributes.body
On your appeal to my friendship and your call for assistance began to mediate between your and the austro-hungarian Government. While this action was proceeding your troops were mobilised against Austro-Hungary, my ally. thereby, as I have already pointed out to you, my mediation has been made almost illusory.

I have nevertheless continued my action. I now receive authentic news of serious preparations for war on my Eastern frontier. Responsibility for the safety of my empire forces preventive measures of defence upon me. In my endeavours to maintain the peace of the world I have gone to the utmost limit possible. The responsibility for the disaster which is now threatening the whole civilized world will not be laid at my door. In this moment it still lies in your power to avert it. Nobody is threatening the honour or power of Russia who can well afford to await the result of my mediation. My friendship for you and your empire, transmitted to me by my grandfather on his deathbed has always been sacred to me and I have honestly often backed up Russia when she was in serious trouble especially in her last war.

The peace of Europe may still be maintained by you, if Russia will agree to stop the milit. measures which must threaten Germany and Austro-Hungary.

Willy

# data[].attributes.headline
Tsar to Kaiser, July 31This and the previous telegram crossed.—-Petersburg, Palace, 31 July 1914Sa Majesté l'Empereur, Neues Palais

# data[].attributes.subject
Tsar to Kaiser, July 31This and the previous telegram crossed.—-Petersburg, Palace, 31 July 1914Sa Majesté l'Empereur, Neues Palais

# data[].attributes.body
I thank you heartily for your mediation which begins to give one hope that all may yet end peacefully. It is technically impossible to stop our military preparations which were obligatory owing to Austria's mobilisation. We are far from wishing war. As long as the negociations with Austria on Servia's account are taking place my troops shall not make any provocative action. I give you my solemn word for this. I put all my trust in Gods mercy and hope in your successful mediation in Vienna for the welfare of our countries and for the peace of Europe.

Your affectionate
Nicky

# data[].attributes.headline
Tsar to Kaiser, August 1Peter's Court, Palace, 1 August 1914Sa Majesté l'EmpereurBerlin

# data[].attributes.subject
Tsar to Kaiser, August 1Peter's Court, Palace, 1 August 1914Sa Majesté l'EmpereurBerlin

# data[].attributes.body
I received your telegram. Understand you are obliged to mobilise but wish to have the same guarantee from you as I gave you, that these measures  do not mean war and that we shall continue negociating for the benefit of our countries and universal peace deal to all our hearts. Our long proved friendship must succeed, with God's help, in avoiding bloodshed. Anexiously, full of confidence await your answer.

Nicky

# data[].attributes.headline
Kaiser to Tsar, August 1Berlin, 1. August 1914

# data[].attributes.subject
Kaiser to Tsar, August 1Berlin, 1. August 1914

# data[].attributes.body
Thanks for your telegram. I yesterday pointed out to your government the way by which alone war may be avoided. Although I requested an answer for noon today, no telegram from my ambassador conveying an answer from your Government has reached me as yet. I therefore have been obliged to mobilise my army.

Immediate affirmative clear and unmistakable answer from your government is the only way to avoid endless misery. Until I have received this answer alas, I am unable to discuss the subject of your telegram. As a matter of fact I must request you to immediatly [sic] order your troops on no account to commit the slightest act of trespassing over our frontiers.

Willy

# data[].attributes.body
1. Serbian Expansion:

Serbia emerged as one of the primary beneficiaries of the Balkan Wars. As a result, it gained significant territorial expansions and access to the Adriatic Sea.

The creation of a Greater Serbia, encompassing newly acquired territories and having the potential to unite Serbs across different regions, raised concerns among neighboring powers.

# data[].attributes.body
Pan-Slavism and Nationalism: Serbia, as a Slavic nation, espoused Pan-Slavic ideals, seeking the unification of Slavic peoples in the Balkans. This vision clashed with Austria-Hungary's imperial interests in the region. The rise of nationalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries exacerbated tensions, with Serbia emerging as a focal point for South Slavic national aspirations

1. Support for Slavic Nationalism: Serbia provided support to Slavic nationalist movements, including the Black Hand secret society, which was involved in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914. While the Serbian government denied direct involvement, there were connections between elements within Serbia and nationalist activities in Bosnia.

2. Austro-Serbian Rivalry: Austria-Hungary viewed Serbia's ambitions as a threat to its own territorial integrity and influence in the Balkans. The Austro-Hungarian government saw Serbian support for Slavic nationalist movements as destabilizing to the multi-ethnic Austro-Hungarian Empire, particularly in regions with South Slavic populations.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.johndclare.net/causes_WWI4_AustriaandSerbia.htm

Austria-Hungary and Serbia history of conflict

# data[].attributes.headline
SECONDARY - USE FOR COUNTER CLAIM IN 1rst CONTENTION

# data[].attributes.subject
SECONDARY - USE FOR COUNTER CLAIM IN 1rst CONTENTION

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.johndclare.net/causes_WWI4_AustriaandSerbia.htm

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.jstor.org/stable/20099532

# data[].attributes.body
http://www.london.mfa.gov.rs/serbiatext.php?subaction=showfull&id=1197024341&ucat=21&template=MeniENG&

# data[].attributes.body
“Serbia’s territorial gains had two significant outcomes, both of which contributed to the outbreak of World War I. The first was a sharp increase in Serbian nationalism. Several Serb nationalist groups had formed in the early 1900s and flourished for the next decade. Their primary aim was to free Serbia from foreign control and influence, particularly from Vienna. In 1908 the Austro-Hungarians formally annexed Bosnia and Herzegovina. This roused nationalist movements in the region. Groups like the Narodna Odbrana (‘People’s Defence’), Crna Ruka(‘Black Hand’) and Mlada Bosna (‘Young Bosnia’) all formed between 1908-1911 and pledged to drive out the Austro-Hungarians. These groups were encouraged by Russian agents, as well as individuals in the Serbian government, public service and military. Most of their activities revolved around political agitation or the production of anti-Austrian propaganda – but some also trained for and plotted acts of terrorism. Their most telling act was the killing of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo in June 1914, by a teenaged member of Crna Ruka, Gavrilo Princip.

Another profound consequence of Serbian expansion was that it threatened the stability of Austro-Hungary. The Hapsburg empire had already surrendered significant territory to the Italians and the Russians in the 1870s; the developments in the Balkans in 1912-13 seemed to hint at even more losses. Austro-Hungarian generals began talking tough about Serbia. While the dual monarchy’s military strength and equipment lagged behind those of Germany, they believed it could easily vanquish the troublesome Serbs. The ageing Austrian emperor, Franz Josef, was not keen on war and was reluctant to place his cherished military at risk. But the assassination of his nephew and his heir, along with the ‘blank cheque’ offered by the German kaiser, roused the old man to action. Otto von Bismarck’s 1888 prediction about a future European war – that it would “start with some damn foolish thing in the Balkans” – was about to be proved correct.”

https://alphahistory.com/worldwar1/balkans/#:~:text=Serbia%27s%20territorial%20gains%20had%20two,sharp%20increase%20in%20Serbian%20nationalism.

# data[].attributes.body
“Although the crisis was resolved without immediate warfare, the resulting sharp relations between Serbia and Austria-Hungary and Russia's umbrage at having been duped and humiliated contributed to the outbreak of World War I. The Balkan Wars were a bloody series of conflicts in Southeastern Europe du- ring 1912-1913.”