Stevan Sinđelić

Stevan Sindjelic2

Stevan Sinđelić (Serbian Cyrillic: Стеван Синђелић) was a Serbian revolutionary leader during the First Serbian Uprising against the Ottoman Empire. He is best known for his command during the Battle of Čegar, where he played a pivotal role in the fight for Serbian independence. His actions and the dramatic end of the battle have made him a legendary figure in Serbian history.

Early Life

Little is known about the early life of Stevan Sinđelić. He was born in the late 18th century, in a period when the Balkans were under Ottoman rule. The exact date and place of his birth remain subjects of historical speculation. Sinđelić was a hajduk (a kind of Balkan bandit and freedom fighter) before joining the Serbian uprising. His life prior to becoming a revolutionary leader is shrouded in mystery, contributing to the legend that surrounds him.

Role in the First Serbian Uprising

The First Serbian Uprising began in 1804, as a spontaneous rebellion against the Dahije, renegade Janissary leaders who had taken control of the Sanjak of Smederevo, disregarding the authority of the Ottoman Sultan. Sinđelić emerged as a prominent leader among the Serbian rebels. His courage and leadership skills earned him the respect and loyalty of his fellow insurgents.

Battle of Čegar

The most notable episode of Sinđelić's life occurred in May 1809, during the Battle of Čegar. Facing a much larger and better-equipped Ottoman force, the Serbian rebels, under Sinđelić's command, fortified themselves on the hill of Čegar near the town of Niš. As the battle turned against the Serbs, Sinđelić made a fateful decision to prevent his troops from being captured and tortured. He fired into his gunpowder keg, causing an explosion that killed him, his remaining forces, and many of the attacking Ottoman soldiers. This act of self-sacrifice became a symbol of the Serbian struggle for independence.

Legacy

Stevan Sinđelić is remembered as a hero of the Serbian revolution. His sacrifice at Čegar has been immortalized in Serbian culture and history. The site of the battle is marked by the Skull Tower (Ćele Kula), a monument built by the Ottomans using the skulls of the Serbian rebels killed at Čegar. The tower stands as a grim reminder of the rebellion and Sinđelić's ultimate sacrifice.

In Serbian society, Sinđelić's name is synonymous with bravery, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom. He is celebrated in Serbian folklore, literature, and history as one of the key figures of the First Serbian Uprising. Schools, streets, and institutions across Serbia bear his name, ensuring that his legacy endures.

See Also

• First Serbian Uprising
• Ottoman Empire
• Skull Tower
• Serbian Revolution