Europe · Modern Era

Who was Gavrilo Princip?

A Bosnian Serb nationalist whose assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo in 1914 triggered the chain of events leading to the First World War.

Gavrilo Princip (1894–1918) is remembered as a key figure from Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for their role: Assassin.

Country / regionBosnia and Herzegovina · Europe
Known forAssassin
Years1894–1918
BornObljaj, Austria-Hungary
DiedTerezín, Austria-Hungary

Why is Gavrilo Princip important?

Gavrilo Princip stands out in history for a specific reason: Was a member of the nationalist movement Young Bosnia. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Was a member of the nationalist movement Young Bosnia
  • Assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo in 1914
  • Triggered the July Crisis that led to the outbreak of war

A fast fact

Gavrilo Princip assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife in Sarajevo on 28 June 1914.

Legacy

Princip’s act is widely seen as the spark that set off the First World War, and his role remains fiercely debated across the Balkans.

Bosnia and Herzegovinaworld war imodern history

What is Gavrilo Princip best known for?

A Bosnian Serb nationalist whose assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo in 1914 triggered the chain of events leading to the First World War.

When and where did Gavrilo Princip live?

Gavrilo Princip was born in Obljaj, Austria-Hungary (1894–1918) and died in Terezín, Austria-Hungary.

What is Gavrilo Princip's lasting legacy?

Princip’s act is widely seen as the spark that set off the First World War, and his role remains fiercely debated across the Balkans.

How can I learn more about Gavrilo Princip?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.