STEVO PETRANOVIĆ AND THE ISSUE OF THE AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN OCCUPATION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA IN 1878

Abstract

Dalmatian Serb Stevo Petranović resided in the territory of the Bosnia Eyalet, later the Bosnia Vilayet, from 1864 to 1878. Through his work among the Serbian population as a cultural and national activist, he left a significant mark, particularly in the regions of Tešanj and Sarajevo. Of particular interest, however, is the role he played in opposing the Austro-Hungarian occupation of Bosnia and Herzegovina during the summer of 1878. Viewing Austria-Hungary as a far greater threat to Serbian national aspirations than the Ottoman Empire, Petranović, in his capacity as interpreter for the Italian Consulate in Sarajevo, closely monitored the reactions of the Muslim population to the news of the impending occupation. Following the outbreak of unrest, he supported the public expression of discontent, actively participated in preparations for armed resistance, delivered speeches, and encouraged the Serbian population to resist. In doing so, he became deeply involved in highly dangerous events, which led to threats of execution by hanging from officials of the Austro-Hungarian diplomatic mission in Sarajevo.

Despite facing a very real danger, Petranović did not abandon his ideals and continued his opposition to the occupation with determination. He remained in Sarajevo even after it had become evident that the city would soon be occupied by Austro-Hungarian forces. He was ultimately rescued from this perilous situation by the acting Italian consul, Usigli, whose intervention persuaded the Austro-Hungarian commander-in-chief, General Filipović, albeit reluctantly, to allow Petranović to leave Sarajevo unharmed and seek refuge in Serbia. With his departure, Petranović’s role in the struggle against the occupation came to an end.