On the Congress of Berlin in 1878, Bosnia and Herzegovina was handed over to Austria Hungary. Why didn't BiH gain independence like some of the neighbouring countries?

by eldudorino29
Hrulj

Because independence wouldn't be lasting at all. It wouldn't be too long until Serbia invades and swallows independent Bosnia, and Austria couldn't allow Dalmatian coastline to be threatened by a de-facto Russian puppet.

Protection of Dalmatia, giving the coastline some depth is the main reason why Austria sought to take Bosnia at Berlin congress.