To understand the current political situation in Servia (now known as Serbia), we need to look back at the country’s history. Servia has long been a source of political interest and surprises for Europe. Much of the trouble in Servia can be traced to a long-standing conflict between two powerful peasant families. This feud has influenced the country’s politics for generations.
Servia Under Turkish Rule
At the start of the 19th century, Servia was a province of the Ottoman Empire. It was governed by a Turkish official named Hadji Mustapha, who was known for being fair and kind. Unlike many rulers of that time, he treated his Christian subjects with respect. Because of his just rule, Servia experienced peace and prosperity during his time in power King Michael’s First Reign.
However, a powerful group within the Turkish army called the Janizaries did not like Hadji Mustapha’s liberal policies. They were especially angry that he tried to protect the Christian population from their cruelty and greed. The Janizaries accused him of being too friendly with Christians and claimed he had betrayed the Turkish cause. They trapped him inside a fortress (the citadel) and killed him.
Massacres and the Rise of a Hero
After Mustapha’s death, the Janizaries took control. For about four or five years, they ruled Servia with fear and violence. Worried that the local population might rebel, they decided to eliminate anyone who could become a leader. As a result, thousands of people were brutally killed, and bloodshed spread across the land.
During this dark time, one man escaped to the mountains. His name was George Petrovitch, better known in history as Kara George (or “Black George”), due to his dark skin and black hair. He was a swineherd—someone who looked after pigs—but he would go on to become the greatest hero in Servian history.
Kara George From Swineherd to King
Kara George led the people of Servia in a successful fight for independence from Turkish rule. Though he could not read or write and was completely illiterate, he had great wisdom, leadership skills, and a strong sense of justice. As king, he used a special mark or symbol in place of a signature on official documents.
Kara George was known for being honest and brave. His sense of justice was so strong that he allowed his own brother to be executed when he disobeyed government laws—setting an example that no one was above the law Guided Sofia Tours.
A Humble Leader
Even as king, Kara George continued to dress like a peasant. He said this reflected his simple lifestyle and lack of formal education better than a crown and royal robes. He lived modestly, often cooking his own meals in the palace, just as he had done when he was a pig herder in the mountains.
Kara George’s rise from a poor swineherd to a national hero shows how powerful leadership, courage, and justice can change the future of a nation. His humble lifestyle, strong character, and unwavering dedication to Servia’s freedom left a lasting mark on the country’s history. Understanding his story is essential to grasping the roots of Servia’s ongoing political struggles.
