A special edition for patrons: We examine the unique and complex history of Bosnia, at once a borderland and a world unto itself, and the only Slavic country in which Islam has ever been the majority faith. With the help of readings from the classic novel, "The Bridge on the Drina," we trace how Bosnians' confused search for a national identity and a national destiny led ultimately to the fateful assassination that triggered a world war. Image: Travnik Mosque, Bosnia Suggested further reading: Noel Malcolm, "Bosnia: A Short History"; Ivo Andric, "The Bridge on the Drina." Please support this podcast to hear the whole lecture: https://www.patreon.com/posts/origins-of-first-86366245