Obrenović

Obrenović Serbian dynasty (1817–1903). It was founded by a former cattle drover, Milos Obrenović I (1780–1860), who became a revolutionary fighting the Turks under KARA GEORGE. After the murder (probably at his instigation) of Kara George, he persuaded the Turks to accept his election in 1817 as Prince of Serbia. His tyrannical rule led to his enforced abdication and the brief reign of Milan Obrenović II. Michael Obrenović III (1823–68) succeeded in 1840 but was forced into exile two years later. Milos was reinstated in 1858 but died in 1860. Michael then resumed his rule, and proved an able and effective leader. He was assassinated in 1868, and his cousin, Milan Obrenović IV (1854–1901), began 30 years of unpopular rule. He declared himself king of Serbia in 1882 but was forced to abdicate in favour of his son Alexander (1876–1903). Alexander's murder in June 1903 ended the dynasty, and the Karageorgević dynasty again came to power.