Dragutin Dimitrijević

Apis and two Black Hand associates

Dragutin Dimitrijević Apis, Dušan Glišić and Antonije Antić

Dragutin Dimitrijević (Serbian Cyrillic: Драгутин Димитријевић; 17 August 1876 – 24 June 1917), also known by his nickname Apis (Апис), was a Serbian military officer and one of the most significant figures in Serbian history during the early 20th century. He played a pivotal role in the political and military affairs of Serbia, most notably as the leader of the secret society Black Hand which was involved in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, an event that is widely considered to have sparked the outbreak of World War I.

Early Life and Military Career

Dragutin Dimitrijević was born in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, into a military family. He pursued a career in the military, graduating from the Military Academy in Belgrade. Dimitrijević quickly rose through the ranks due to his intelligence, dedication, and leadership skills. He was known for his nationalist views and his belief in the unification of all South Slavs under Serbian leadership.

Black Hand Society

In 1911, Dimitrijević founded the Black Hand, a secret society committed to the creation of a Greater Serbia. The organization was involved in various activities aimed at achieving this goal, including political assassination and sabotage. Dimitrijević, under his pseudonym Apis, was a key figure in the planning and execution of these activities.

Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

The most infamous act associated with Dimitrijević and the Black Hand was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in Sarajevo on 28 June 1914. This event is often cited as the immediate cause of World War I. While Dimitrijević did not personally participate in the assassination, he was instrumental in planning the operation and providing support to the assassins.

World War I and Death

With the outbreak of World War I, Dimitrijević continued to serve in the Serbian military. However, his involvement in the Black Hand and its activities eventually led to his downfall. In 1917, he was arrested and tried by the Serbian government for his role in a supposed plot against the Serbian regent, Alexander. Dimitrijević was found guilty and executed by firing squad on 24 June 1917.

Legacy

Dragutin Dimitrijević Apis remains a controversial figure in Serbian history. To some, he is a national hero who fought for the liberation and unification of South Slavs. To others, he is a symbol of the darker aspects of nationalism and the lengths to which it can drive individuals. His role in the events leading up to World War I continues to be the subject of historical debate and analysis.