The First Balkan War began in October 1912, as the Balkan League—composed of Serbia, Montenegro, Greece, and Bulgaria—sought to drive the weakening Ottoman Empire out of its European territories. As tensions escalated, the League aimed to capture various key cities, with Thessaloniki and Skopje being of particular importance. On October 26, Bulgarian troops managed to capture Thessaloniki, an essential port city, following a fierce siege. This defeat was significant for the Ottoman Empire, which had relied on Thessaloniki for military and economic purposes.

Simultaneously, Serbian forces advanced towards Skopje, the capital of Ottoman Macedonia, encountering resistance but eventually succeeding in their goal. The capture of Skopje not only represented a territorial gain for Serbia but also a blow to Ottoman authority in the region. These victories were crucial steps in the Balkan League's campaign against the Ottomans, showcasing their military effectiveness and unity in confronting a common foe.

The loss of these two cities sent shockwaves through the Ottoman Empire, revealing the vulnerability of its Balkan territories and leading to larger discussions about the future of the Empire. Both cities bore historical significance, with ties to the Ottoman culture and governance, making their loss a damaging blow that foreshadowed further territorial disintegration. This conflict ultimately paved the way for changes in the political landscape of Southeast Europe, setting the stage for future conflicts and reshaping national borders.