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Two shots in Sarajevo. The teenager who started World War I and changed everything.
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Life Journey
Gavrilo Princip was born to Petar and Marija Princip in Obljaj, a small village in Bosnia and Herzegovina, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Princip starts his primary education in Gornji Milanovac, Serbia, where he excels academically and shows a strong interest in literature and history.
Princip moves to Sarajevo to attend the prestigious Sarajevo Gymnasium, where he becomes involved in revolutionary and nationalist student groups.
Princip joins the revolutionary organization Young Bosnia, which aims to liberate the Balkans from Austro-Hungarian rule and create a unified South Slavic state.
Princip takes part in student protests against Austro-Hungarian authorities, demonstrating his commitment to the cause of South Slavic independence.
The Balkan Wars erupt, and Princip, though not directly involved, is inspired by the efforts to liberate Slavic territories from Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian control.
Princip is expelled from Sarajevo Gymnasium for his involvement in revolutionary activities, marking a turning point in his radicalization.
Princip meets with fellow conspirators in Belgrade, planning the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne.
Princip assassinates Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, in Sarajevo, sparking a series of events that lead to the outbreak of World War I.
Princip is arrested and subsequently imprisoned in Theresienstadt, Austria-Hungary, where he faces a military trial for his role in the assassination.
Princip is sentenced to 20 years in prison, the maximum punishment for a minor, as he was under the age of 20 at the time of the assassination.
Princip's health begins to deteriorate rapidly in prison, suffering from tuberculosis and malnutrition, leading to the loss of one of his arms.
As World War I rages on, Princip remains in prison, his health further declining, and he becomes increasingly isolated and despondent.
Gavrilo Princip dies in Theresienstadt prison, succumbing to tuberculosis and the harsh conditions of his confinement. His actions had a profound impact on world history.