The First Serbian Uprising began in the early 19th century as Serbs grew increasingly discontent with Ottoman rule, which had been in place for centuries. Economic hardships, heavy taxation, and harsh regulations fueled dissatisfaction among the Serbian population. Karađorđe Petrović, a Serbian leader with experience in organizing resistance, emerged as a key figure in mobilizing the people. On February 14, 1804, he and his followers held a crucial assembly in Takovo, where they proclaimed their intention to fight for freedom. This event marked the formal beginning of the rebellion, and Karađorđe was declared the leader of the uprising.

During the uprising, Karađorđe demonstrated remarkable military acumen, leading his forces to several important victories against the Ottomans. The rebellion gained momentum, drawing in additional support from Serbian peasants and gaining international attention. The uprising was characterized by guerilla tactics and strategic assaults, which allowed the well-organized Serb forces to challenge the numerically superior Ottoman army effectively. Karađorđe's leadership style, prioritizing local participation and mobilization, enhanced the sense of unity among the Serb populace.

Though the uprising initially brought some territorial gains and autonomy for the Serbian people, it faced fierce retaliation from the Ottoman authorities. Despite being driven back at various points, the struggle laid the groundwork for later movements toward Serbian independence. The First Serbian Uprising ultimately set the stage for significant political change in the region and contributed to the larger struggle for national identity and self-determination within the Balkans in the 19th century.