Bosnian Crisis, 1908

a. Key events

    •  Austria-Hungary took over Bosnia.

    •  Bosnia had been under Ottoman control.

    •  Serbia was angry and wanted Bosnia.

    •  Russia backed Serbia at first.

    •  Russia and Serbia backed down when Germany supported Austria.

   

b. What issues were involved

    •  Austria expanding into Slavic land.

    •  Serbia wanted to unite Slavs (Pan-Slavism).

    •  Russia wanted influence in the Balkans.

    •  Germany stood by Austria.

    •  Tension between Austria and Serbia grew.

   

c. How it became an international crisis

    •  Austria acted without warning others.

    •  Serbia and Russia felt humiliated.

    •  Germany’s support made Austria bolder.

    •  Showed alliances were willing to act.