War Information
10 sectionsMilitary History of Vukovar
Vukovar, a city in eastern Croatia near the Serbian border, is internationally known for its devastating battle in 1991. The city has been involved in several conflicts throughout its history.
Ottoman and Habsburg Period
Vukovar was under Ottoman control from the 16th to 17th centuries before being conquered by the Habsburgs in the late 17th century. It became part of the Habsburg Military Frontier.
World War II
During 1941–1945, Vukovar was part of the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). Ethnic tensions between Croat and Serb populations intensified during this period.
Croatian War of Independence and Battle of Vukovar (1991)
The Battle of Vukovar was an 87-day siege by the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) and Serb paramilitary forces. The city was systematically bombarded. After its fall, the Vukovar massacre occurred where 264 wounded and civilians were taken from the city hospital and executed. The battle became a symbol of Croatian resistance and Serb war crimes.
