Tito, Yugoslavia, and the „Third Way”: Understanding Physical and Symbolic Borders

Viewed with an understanding of Josip Broz Tito’s personality and leadership, Yugoslavia’s position during the Cold War is not difficult to comprehend, The political separation from Stalin in 1948, determined a course for Yugoslav development that was different from that of other socialist countries. This separation also caused Yugoslavia to seek allies outside of Europe. That is how the Non-Aligned Movement was founded, as a unity of nations designed to ease the tension between the Eastern and the Western blocs. Tito’s image as a liberator, statesman and a party leader was the reason the Yugoslav people saw him as the stalwart of the Republic. It is also what led him to be named president for life in 1974. The best Yugoslavian factories, schools, military facilities and main streets of all the cities, were named after him. Even now, thirty years after his death, Josip Broz Tito’s personality and leadership are still often discussed. Many of his followers continue to glorify his successes, but there are also a growing number of young people who are infected by “titostalgia”. They gather on various Internet web-sites or in lines waiting to get in the Museum of Yugoslav History (formerly called “Museum 25 May”, after his birth date). This paper will explore Yugoslavia’s political, economic, and cultural position during the Cold War. The relationship between youth, born after Tito’s death, and his personality will be specifically explained.