In the early 19th century, Serbia was under Ottoman control, a situation that prompted feelings of nationalism among the Serbs. The annexation by the Ottoman Empire created immense dissatisfaction and unrest among the Serbian population, leading to the mobilization of local leaders and fighters. The Second Serbian Uprising began in 1815, reignited by the leadership of figures like Karađorđe Petrović and later Miloš Obrenović, who sought to amplify the struggle for autonomy that had simmered since the First Serbian Uprising, which was suppressed in 1813.

Kicking off in the village of Takovo, the uprising quickly spread throughout the region of Serbia as insurgent forces engaged in battles against Ottoman garrisons. The Serbs employed guerrilla tactics, using their knowledge of the local terrain to their advantage, which allowed them to achieve several early victories. As the movement garnered more support from the populace, it transformed from a localized revolt into a significant national movement aimed at reclaiming sovereignty and cultural identity from foreign influence.

The uprising's fervor was not only a military reaction but also a cultural awakening, emphasizing the importance of Serbian identity amidst centuries of Ottoman domination. After several confrontations and negotiations, the uprising ultimately led to the establishment of a form of autonomy for Serbia under the Treaty of Bucharest, marking a critical step in the long struggle for Serbian independence that would continue in subsequent decades.