# Dragutin Dimitrijević > Serbian military commander (1876–1917) **Wikidata**: [Q441659](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q441659) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragutin_Dimitrijević) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dragutin-dimitrijevic ## Summary Dragutin Dimitrijević, also known as "Apis," was a Serbian military commander and a key figure in the secret society known as the Black Hand. He played a significant role in Serbian military and political affairs during the early 20th century, particularly in the lead-up to World War I. ## Biography - **Born**: August 17, 1876 - **Nationality**: Serbian - **Education**: First Belgrade Gymnasium - **Known for**: Founding and leading the Black Hand, a secret society aimed at promoting Serbian nationalism and territorial expansion - **Employer(s)**: Serbian military - **Field(s)**: Military, politics ## Contributions Dragutin Dimitrijević was instrumental in the formation and leadership of the Black Hand, a secret society established in 1911. The Black Hand was dedicated to the unification of all Serbs and the creation of a Greater Serbia, which included territories under Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman control. Dimitrijević's leadership in the Black Hand played a crucial role in shaping Serbian nationalist movements and influencing the political landscape of the Balkans. His actions and the activities of the Black Hand were significant factors in the events leading up to World War I. ## FAQs **What was Dragutin Dimitrijević's role in the Black Hand?** Dragutin Dimitrijević, also known as "Apis," was the founder and leader of the Black Hand, a secret society established in 1911. The Black Hand was dedicated to promoting Serbian nationalism and the creation of a Greater Serbia. **What was the significance of the Black Hand in Serbian history?** The Black Hand played a crucial role in shaping Serbian nationalist movements and influencing the political landscape of the Balkans. Its activities were significant factors in the events leading up to World War I. **What was Dragutin Dimitrijević's educational background?** Dragutin Dimitrijević attended the First Belgrade Gymnasium, a prestigious public school in Belgrade, Serbia. **What awards or recognitions did Dragutin Dimitrijević receive?** Dragutin Dimitrijević was awarded the Order of the White Eagle, a royal order in the Kingdom of Serbia and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. ## Why They Matter Dragutin Dimitrijević's leadership in the Black Hand and his involvement in Serbian military and political affairs had a profound impact on the history of Serbia and the Balkans. His actions and the activities of the Black Hand were significant factors in the events leading up to World War I, shaping the political landscape of the region. Dimitrijević's dedication to Serbian nationalism and the creation of a Greater Serbia influenced the course of Serbian history and the broader geopolitical dynamics of Southeastern Europe. ## Notable For - Founding and leading the Black Hand, a secret society aimed at promoting Serbian nationalism and territorial expansion - Playing a significant role in Serbian military and political affairs during the early 20th century - Being awarded the Order of the White Eagle, a royal order in the Kingdom of Serbia and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia - Influencing the political landscape of the Balkans and the events leading up to World War I ## Body ### Early Life and Education Dragutin Dimitrijević was born on August 17, 1876. He attended the First Belgrade Gymnasium, a prestigious public school in Belgrade, Serbia, which was founded in 1839. This institution played a significant role in shaping the educational and intellectual landscape of Serbia during the 19th and early 20th centuries. ### Military Career Dimitrijević served in the Serbian military, where he rose to prominence as a military commander. His military career was marked by his involvement in various conflicts and his dedication to the Serbian cause. He became known for his strategic acumen and leadership skills, which earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and subordinates. ### Founding and Leadership of the Black Hand In 1911, Dragutin Dimitrijević founded the Black Hand, a secret society dedicated to promoting Serbian nationalism and the creation of a Greater Serbia. The Black Hand aimed to unify all Serbs and liberate territories under Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman control. Dimitrijević, also known as "Apis," was the leader of this organization, which played a crucial role in shaping Serbian nationalist movements and influencing the political landscape of the Balkans. ### Political Influence and Activities The Black Hand, under Dimitrijević's leadership, was involved in various political and military activities aimed at achieving its goals. The organization was known for its secretive and often violent methods, which included assassinations and sabotage. The activities of the Black Hand were significant factors in the events leading up to World War I, as they contributed to the tensions and conflicts in the Balkans. ### Awards and Recognitions Dragutin Dimitrijević was awarded the Order of the White Eagle, a royal order in the Kingdom of Serbia and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. This award was a testament to his contributions to the Serbian military and his role in promoting Serbian nationalism. ### Legacy and Impact Dragutin Dimitrijević's leadership in the Black Hand and his involvement in Serbian military and political affairs had a profound impact on the history of Serbia and the Balkans. His actions and the activities of the Black Hand were significant factors in the events leading up to World War I, shaping the political landscape of the region. Dimitrijević's dedication to Serbian nationalism and the creation of a Greater Serbia influenced the course of Serbian history and the broader geopolitical dynamics of Southeastern Europe. ### Death and Posthumous Recognition Dragutin Dimitrijević died on June 24, 1917. Despite his controversial methods and the secretive nature of his activities, he is remembered as a key figure in Serbian history. His contributions to the Serbian military and his role in promoting Serbian nationalism continue to be studied and debated by historians and scholars. ## References 1. Integrated Authority File 2. Czech National Authority Database 3. Virtual International Authority File 4. Encyclopædia Britannica Online 5. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie 6. Croatian Encyclopedia 7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013