2.  Turkey (Ottoman Empire) ruled most of the Balkans at the start of this century.  This part of Europe was called “the sick man of Europe” because it was so weak.  All the major surrounding power wanted to increase their influence in the area were looking for an opportunity to take the Balkans.

3.  Russia - ports on the Mediterranean.  Austria-Hungary – ports on the Mediterranean and crush the rebellious Slavs.  Germany – A Berlin to Baghdad Railway  Italy – Land on the other side of Adriatic.

4.  In 1908, a group called the “young Turks” caused chaos everywhere in Turkey.  Austria- Hungary takes advantage. They seized the provinces of Bosnia and Herzegovina.  Most of the people were Serbs and did not want to be a part of Austria-Hungary. They wanted to be part of Serbia. Now Serbia was an enemy of Austria - Hungary.

5.  Italy attacked Turkey in 1911, beating them easily. Turkey was now very week.  The other Balkan countries (Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Montenegro) joined together in 1912 to form the “Balkan League”.  The Balkan League attacked Turkey and won. They were given all the land that Turkey owned in the Balkans.

6.  King Ferdinand (Bulgaria) wanted more land.  1913 Ferdinand attacks Serbia and Greece. This was a disaster for Bulgaria. They ended up being attacked from 4 sides. (they lost)  Serbia came out the best after both Balkan wars.

7.  After all of this the Austrian Serbs gained an even stronger desire to join Serbia.  The Balkans were now seething with hatred, resentment and unrest.