Milovan Djilas: The Sentence of a Yugoslav Dissident

Name: Milovan Djilas: The Sentence of a Yugoslav Dissident
Start: 1911-10-05
Location: Unspecified

Overview of Milovan Djilas's Sentence

The Life of Milovan Djilas

Milovan Djilas was born in 1911 in Montenegro, Yugoslavia. He became a prominent communist revolutionary and politician, playing a significant role in the establishment of the new Yugoslav state after World War II. However, Djilas was also known for his strong intellectual insights into communism and the political dynamics of the region. He became increasingly critical of the regime and its oppressive measures, which ultimately led to his imprisonment.

The Context of His Imprisonment

In 1957, the Yugoslavian government sentenced Milovan Djilas to seven years in prison for his outspoken criticism of the regime in his book, "The New Class." In this publication, he argued that a new elite had emerged in Yugoslavia, one that was exploiting the working class and undermining true communism. His ideas sparked widespread discussion among intellectuals both within Yugoslavia and internationally, challenging the status quo of the communist party.

Aftermath of Djilas’s Sentence

Impact of Djilas's Writing

Djilas's critiques and his time in prison significantly influenced perceptions of communism in Eastern Europe. Despite being silenced, his works continued to inspire political dissidents, as they expressed a longing for democratic ideals and transparency. Even after his release in 1961, he remained a central figure in the discussion surrounding political reform in the region.

The Legacy of Milovan Djilas

Milovan Djilas passed away in 1995, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of the struggle against oppressive regimes and the fight for intellectual freedom. His journey from a revolutionary to a dissident illustrates the complexities faced by political thinkers under autocratic governance, prompting ongoing discussions about authority and dignity in political life.

Fun Fact

Djilas’s Interesting Fact

Did you know that Milovan Djilas was not only a politician but also a prolific writer? His literary contributions extended beyond political commentary to include novels and essays that painted a vivid picture of life in post-war Yugoslavia.