Benevolent Socialist Leader Honored in Serbia (continuation of Budapest to Bucharest cruise)

 

 

 

 

 

Tito was the President of Yugoslavia from 1953 until his death in 1980.  Although he was considered authoritarian, a dictator, he was beloved by most of Yugoslavians due to his reforms and successful economic policies.  He was popular around the world and managed to stay unaligned and independent through the cold wars.  After the breakup of Yugoslavia it seems that one of his greatest strengths was his liberal policy on religion which kept the ancient differences Orthodox and Muslim religions from being intolerant to point of war.  One can get a synopsis of his accomplishments and life on Wikipedia.

 

This museum complex is very much like the U.S. Presidential libraries and museums that are built after one of our presidents retires.  For example Tito's office with elaborately carved desk is on display. 

 

 

 

 

The following two photos are of wood furniture inlaid with mother of pearl.  They were a gift from some country, but unfortunately the labels did not include English.  They speak for themselves though, don't they?

 

 

 

In grade school we had to memorize the leaders of the world.  Tito and Hirohito were two of my favorites, because I never forgot them.

 

Although at first glance you might think that Tito was very fond of beer or at least collecting taps, these are actually running relay batons.  22,000 of them.  From 1945 to 1987 relays were organized across the country on Tito's birthday.  They usually began in Tito's hometown in Croatia and culminated in Belgrade.  Ceremonial batons would be given to Tito as gifts.  By 1950 there were over 1 million runners involved!  It became known as the Relay of Youth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There many many gifts from foreign dignitaries displayed.   I could've spent a lot more time admiring the artwork and collections.