Famous Serbian Leaders

Lepa Radić was a Yugoslav Partisan and communist of Serbian origin who played a significant role in the resistance movement against the Axis powers during the Second World War. Her bravery and commitment to the cause led to her being awarded the Order of the People's Hero in 1951, making her the youngest recipient at the time. Despite facing imminent death, she refused to betray her comrades and leaders, demonstrating her unwavering loyalty and dedication to the resistance movement until the very end.

Dragoljub "Draža" Mihailović was a Yugoslav Serb general known for leading the Chetnik Detachments of the Yugoslav Army during World War II. He fought in the Balkan Wars and World War I before organizing the Chetniks in 1941 to resist the German invasion. Conflict with Josip Broz Tito's Partisans arose due to differing strategies and ideological beliefs. Mihailović's collaboration with Axis powers and fascist collaborators led to his capture, trial, and execution for high treason and war crimes by communist authorities in 1946.

Karađorđe Petrović, also known as Black George, was a Serbian revolutionary who led the struggle for his country's independence from the Ottoman Empire during the First Serbian Uprising. He distinguished himself during the Austro-Turkish War as a member of the Serbian Free Corps. He fought alongside the Ottomans against a rogue governor's invasion. Elected to lead the uprising against renegade Ottoman janissaries, he successfully crushed the Dahi resistance. Despite setbacks, he continued to lead the rebels and sought autonomy from the Ottomans, refusing offers of extensive autonomy in favor of complete independence. After being forced to flee Serbia, he joined a Greek secret society planning to launch a pan-Balkan uprising against the Ottomans. His return to Serbia led to his assassination by a rival rebel leader concerned about the Ottomans reneging on concessions, sparking a feud between their descendants for the Serbian throne.

Gavrilo Princip was a Bosnian Serb student who assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir presumptive to the throne of Austria-Hungary, and his wife Sophie, Duchess von Hohenberg, in Sarajevo on 28 June 1914. He was part of the secret society Young Bosnia, aiming to free Bosnia from Austrian rule and unify the South Slavs. Princip's act set off a chain of events leading to World War I. He was tried, sentenced to twenty years in prison, and died in 1918 due to tuberculosis worsened by poor prison conditions.

Nikola Pašić was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav politician and diplomat who served as prime minister multiple times in both Serbia and Yugoslavia, leading a total of 22 governments. He played a key role in the founding of Yugoslavia and is considered one of the most influential figures in Serbian history. Known for his populism, nationalism, and political pragmatism, Pašić oversaw Serbia's economic growth, led the country to victory in the Balkan Wars, and represented Serbia at the Paris Peace Conference.

Dragutin Dimitrijević, known as Apis, was a Serbian army officer and chief of the military intelligence section of the general staff in 1913. He was a prominent figure in the Black Hand, a secret military society responsible for the 1903 Serbian government overthrow and regicide. Dimitrijević is believed to have orchestrated the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, triggering World War I. Accused of high treason by Serbian Prime Minister Nikola Pašić, he was tried and found guilty of conspiring against the Prince Regent and subsequently executed in 1917.

Velimir "Bata" Živojinović was a prominent Yugoslav and Serbian actor known for his versatile performances in over 340 films and TV series. He gained widespread recognition for his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft, making him one of the most respected actors in former Yugoslavia. Throughout his career, Živojinović captivated audiences with his captivating portrayals of various characters, showcasing his remarkable range and skill as an actor. Additionally, he ventured into politics, further showcasing his commitment to public service.

Dobrica Ćosić was a prominent Yugoslav and Serbian politician, writer, and political theorist. He was a highly acclaimed author, receiving the prestigious NIN award for literature twice and the Medal of Pushkin for his writing. His literary works have been translated into 30 languages, showcasing his global influence. Ćosić served as the first President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia from 1992 to 1994. Known as the Father of the Nation by some for his significant impact on modern Serbian politics and the national revival movement in the late 1980s.

Crown Prince George of Serbia served with distinction in the army and was severely wounded during World War I. He became popular in the country due to his military service, which caused concern for his younger brother, King Alexander I. In 1925, he was declared insane, arrested, and locked in an asylum by his brother. He remained confined for nearly two decades until being released by German forces during World War II. After the war, he was the only royal family member not sent into exile.

Neda Arnerić was a Serbian film, stage, and television actress, as well as a politician. She was known for her work in Yugoslav cinematography and was considered a sex symbol in the industry. Arnerić was also a graduate art historian, showcasing her diverse talents and interests. Throughout her professional life, she made significant contributions to the world of acting through her performances on screen and stage, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry as a versatile and accomplished actress.

Hostilian was briefly Roman emperor in 251, elevated to co-emperor by Trebonianus Gallus after the deaths of Decius and Herennius Etruscus. His reign, however, was short-lived as he died soon after, possibly due to plague or being murdered by Trebonianus Gallus. Hostilian's time as emperor was marked by political instability and military conflicts, including the Battle of Abritus against the Goths. Despite his brief tenure, Hostilian's role as co-emperor reflects the complex power dynamics within the Roman Empire during this period.

Momčilo Krajišnik was a Bosnian Serb political leader and convicted war criminal. He co-founded the Bosnian Serb nationalist Serb Democratic Party and served as the speaker of the People's Assembly of Republika Srpska. He was also a member of the expanded Presidency of Republika Srpska. After the Bosnian War, he was elected as the Serb member of the tripartite Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2006, he was found guilty of crimes against humanity during the Bosnian War by the ICTY and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Sergej Trifunović is a multifaceted Serbian professional known for his work as an actor, comedian, singer, politician, and citizen activist. He founded the charity foundation Podrži život (Support Life) in 2014, dedicated to supporting underprivileged children with serious medical conditions. Trifunović served as the president of the Movement of Free Citizens from 2019 to 2020, demonstrating his commitment to social and political causes. Through his various roles and initiatives, Trifunović has made a significant impact on both the entertainment industry and the community.

Alboin was the king of the Lombards from around 560 to 572. He led the Lombards to settle in Italy, conquering the northern part of the region between 569 and 572. His reign marked the beginning of centuries of Lombard rule in Italy and the end of the dominance of Germanic peoples in the Pannonian Basin. Alboin faced confrontation and conflict with the Gepids in Pannonia, eventually defeating them with the help of the Avars. He then moved to Italy, taking control of various regions before being assassinated in a coup instigated by the Byzantines.

Milovan Djilas was a Yugoslav communist politician, theorist, and author known for his role in the Partisan movement during World War II and in the post-war government. He identified as a democratic socialist and later became a prominent dissident in Yugoslavia and Eastern Europe. Djilas critiqued communism from within to improve it for several decades, but after the revolutions of 1989 and the breakup of Yugoslavia, he shifted to an anti-communist viewpoint due to disillusionment with his youthful dreams.

Lidija Vukićević is a prominent Serbian film and TV actress known for her role as Violeta in the popular television series Bolji život. Her acting career flourished in the 1980s and 1990s. In addition to her successful acting career, Vukićević was politically active with the Serbian Radical Party, serving as their Member of Parliament in the Serbian parliament. She hails from the Vasojevići clan and has left a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and politics in Serbia.

Radomir Putnik was a distinguished military leader, serving as the first Serbian Field Marshal and Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian army during the Balkan Wars and First World War. He played a crucial role in every conflict Serbia was involved in from 1876 to 1917, demonstrating exceptional strategic skills and leadership. Known for his dedication and tactical acumen, Putnik's professional life was marked by a commitment to defending his country and guiding its military forces through challenging times with resilience and determination.

Zoltán Dani is a Serbian Hungarian retired officer of the Yugoslav Army. He gained notoriety as the commander of the 3rd battery of the 250th Missile Brigade, responsible for shooting down a NATO F-117 Nighthawk during the Kosovo War using a S-125 surface-to-air missile system. Dani also claimed his battery downed a NATO F-16 despite initial NATO denials. After retiring from the military, he transitioned to civilian life by opening a bakery and a family restaurant in his native village of Skorenovac.

Milan Stojadinović was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav politician and economist who held several key government positions throughout his career. He served as the Prime Minister of Yugoslavia from 1935 to 1939, during which time he also held the position of Foreign Minister. Additionally, Stojadinović served as Minister of Finance on three separate occasions, demonstrating his expertise and leadership in economic matters. His contributions to Yugoslav politics and finance left a lasting impact on the country during a critical period in its history.

Vojislav "Voja" Brajović is a renowned Serbian actor with a prolific career spanning several decades. He has showcased his versatile acting skills across various mediums, including film, television, and theater. Brajović is widely recognized for his exceptional performances in a diverse range of roles, demonstrating his mastery in portraying complex characters with depth and authenticity. His talent and dedication to his craft have earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan following, solidifying his status as one of the most respected actors in Serbian cinema.

Veljko Kadijević was a Serbian general of the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) who served as the Minister of Defence in the Yugoslav government from 1988 to 1992. In this role, he was the de facto commander-in-chief of the JNA during the Ten-Day War in Slovenia and the early phases of the Croatian War of Independence. Kadijević played a significant role in these conflicts, overseeing military operations and decisions during a turbulent period in the history of the former Yugoslavia.

Slobodan Milošević was a Yugoslav and Serbian politician who served as President of Serbia from 1989 to 1997 and President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia from 1997 until his overthrow in 2000. He played a significant role in the Yugoslav Wars and was the first sitting head of state charged with war crimes. Milošević came to power in 1987, enacted dominant-party rule, and led the Socialist Party of Serbia until his death. He faced charges of war crimes and violations of the Genocide Convention before his death in 2006.

Zoran Đinđić was a Serbian politician and philosopher who served as the Prime Minister of Serbia from 2001 until his assassination in 2003. He was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, advocating for pro-democratic reforms and the integration of Serbia into European structures. As Prime Minister, he implemented innovations in line with Council of Europe recommendations, leading to Serbia and Montenegro becoming a member state. He strongly supported cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, but his tenure was tragically cut short by his assassination in 2003.

Boris Tadić is a Serbian politician who served as president of Serbia from 2004 to 2012. He started his career in the Democratic Party (DS) in 1990, eventually becoming its president. Tadić held various government positions, including minister of telecommunications and defence. During his presidency, he focused on cooperation and reconciliation in the former Yugoslav countries, visited the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial, and worked towards Serbia's EU integration. After losing re-election in 2012, he formed the Social Democratic Party and continued advocating for closer ties with the EU.

Ana Brnabić is a Serbian politician who has held several key positions in the government. She served as the Minister of Public Administration and Local Self-Government before becoming the Prime Minister of Serbia, making history as the first woman, openly gay person, and longest-serving individual in that role. Brnabić has been an influential figure in the Serbian Progressive Party, serving as both vice president and president of the National Assembly. She has been recognized internationally, being ranked among the most powerful women in the world by Forbes magazine.

Tomislav Nikolić is a Serbian former politician who served as the president of Serbia from 2012 to 2017. He was a member of the far-right Serbian Radical Party (SRS) before forming the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in 2008. Nikolić held various political positions, including Deputy Prime Minister of Serbia and FR Yugoslavia. He ran for President multiple times, eventually winning the presidency in 2012. Nikolić's career was marked by his shift towards supporting Serbia's accession to the European Union, leading to his split from the SRS.

Slobodan Jovanović was a multi-faceted Serbian and Yugoslav intellectual known for his contributions as a writer, historian, lawyer, philosopher, literary critic, diplomat, and politician. He held various prestigious positions throughout his career, including professor at the University of Belgrade Faculty of Law, Rector of the University of Belgrade, and President of the Serbian Royal Academy. Jovanović also played a significant role in politics, serving as Deputy Prime Minister and later as Prime Minister of the Royal Yugoslav government-in-exile in London during World War II.

Miroslav Lazanski was a versatile figure in Serbian public life, known for his roles as a journalist, military analyst, politician, and diplomat. He served as the ambassador of Serbia to the Russian Federation and was previously a Member of Parliament. Lazanski's expertise in political and military affairs was highlighted through his writings and commentary for the Belgrade daily Politika. He also held a position in the National Assembly of Serbia as a member of the governing coalition.

Momir Bulatović was a Yugoslav and Montenegrin politician who held key positions of power. He served as the first President of the Republic of Montenegro and later as the Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. He was a leader of Montenegro's Democratic Party of Socialists before splitting from the party due to conflicts. During his tenure, he oversaw Montenegrin reservists' involvement in the Yugoslav People's Army during the Siege of Dubrovnik and the Bosnian War. Bulatović was also involved in trials at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia as a defense witness.

Ilija Garašanin was a prominent Serbian statesman who served as the prime minister of Serbia during two terms in the mid-19th century. Known for his conservative approach to internal politics, he emphasized the importance of bureaucracy for effective administration. In terms of foreign policy, Garašanin was a strong advocate for a united Yugoslav state that maintained independence from major powers such as Russia and Austria. His influence in Serbian politics during the 19th century was significant, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the country's history.

Anton Korošec was a Yugoslav politician known for his role within the conservative People's Party. He also held the position of a Roman Catholic priest, blending his religious and political influence. Korošec was recognized for his exceptional oratory skills, which helped him effectively communicate his ideas and garner support for his political endeavors. Throughout his professional life, he played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Yugoslavia and advocating for the interests of his party and constituents.

Vojislav Koštunica is a Serbian former politician who served as the last president of FR Yugoslavia and as the prime minister of Serbia. He won the 2000 Yugoslav presidential election, leading to the overthrow of Slobodan Milošević. Koštunica opposed cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and formed a minority government after the 2003 Serbian parliamentary election. He played a key role in adopting Serbia's first constitution and declaring it a neutral country. Koštunica later resigned as the president of the Democratic Party of Serbia and founded the eurosceptic "Statehood Movement of Serbia."

Borislav Pekić was a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav writer and political activist. He spent most of his life in Belgrade, where he was a founding member of the Democratic Party in Serbia. Pekić is renowned as one of the most significant Serbian literary figures of the 20th century. His professional life was characterized by his prolific writing career and his active involvement in political activities, making a lasting impact on the cultural and political landscape of Serbia and Yugoslavia.

Biljana Plavšić is a former politician, university professor, and scientist. She served as the President of Republika Srpska and was later convicted of crimes against humanity for her involvement in the Bosnian War. Plavšić was indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in 2001 for war crimes during the conflict. Prior to her political career, she was a biology professor at the University of Sarajevo. Plavšić plea-bargained with the ICTY and served 11 years in a Swedish prison before being released in 2009.

Ivica Dačić is a prominent Serbian politician who has held various high-ranking positions in the government. He has been a member of the Socialist Party of Serbia since 1991, serving as its leader since 2006. Dačić has held roles such as minister of information, prime minister, deputy prime minister, and minister of internal affairs. Throughout his career, he has shown a willingness to adapt his views based on circumstances and has worked on party reform. Dačić is known for his populist and nationalist political positions.

Mirjana "Mira" Marković was a Serbian politician and academic known for her leadership of the far-left Yugoslav United Left (JUL) party. She wielded significant influence during her husband Slobodan Milošević's presidency, earning her nicknames like "The Red Witch" and the "Lady Macbeth of Belgrade." Marković faced legal issues, including accusations of abuse of office, leading to her fleeing Belgrade in 2003. She lived in political asylum in Moscow until her death in 2019.

Svetozar Marović is a Montenegrin lawyer and politician who held the positions of head of state and head of government of Serbia and Montenegro from 2003 to 2006. He was later arrested in Montenegro in 2015 on corruption charges and fled to Serbia before being found guilty in 2017. Montenegro has sought his extradition from Serbia. In April 2022, Marović was sanctioned by the US Treasury and added to the Specially Designated Nationals List for his involvement in Balkans-related issues.

István Pásztor was a prominent Serbian politician and leader of the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians. He served as the president of the Assembly of Vojvodina from 2012 until his passing in 2023. Pásztor was a key figure in advocating for the rights and representation of ethnic Hungarians in Serbia. He led the Hungarian Coalition and ran as their candidate in the 2008 Serbian presidential election. Pásztor was known for his diplomatic approach and garnered respect from politicians in Serbia and Hungary.

Marinika Tepić is a Serbian politician known for her role as a vice-president of the Party of Freedom and Justice (SSP). She has held various positions in government, including serving as the secretary for sports and youth in the government of Vojvodina. Tepić has also been a member of other political parties before joining SSP, where she now leads the group in the national assembly. She is recognized for her vocal opposition to Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić and the governing Serbian Progressive Party, often accusing them of undermining democratic institutions and election fraud.

Vanja Udovičić is a Serbian politician and former professional water polo player known for his successful career spanning 15 seasons. He played for various clubs such as Partizan Belgrade, Jadran Herceg Novi, Posillipo Naples, Pro Recco, Mladost Zagreb, and Radnički Kragujevac. Notable achievements include winning the LEN Euroleague twice with Pro Recco in 2008 and 2010. With the Serbian national team, he achieved multiple gold medals in European and World Championships, as well as Olympic silver and bronze medals.

Vuk Jeremić is a Serbian politician and diplomat known for his roles as the President of the United Nations General Assembly and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia. He has been actively involved in promoting democracy and representing Serbia on the international stage. Jeremić has worked to strengthen Serbia's relations with the West, opposed Kosovo's secession, and played a key role in the country's path towards EU membership. He is also the president of the Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development and editor-in-chief of Horizons magazine.

Aleksandar Šapić is a Serbian politician and former professional water polo player. He has been the mayor of Belgrade since 2024, previously serving from 2022 to 2023. As a member and current vice-president of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), Šapić previously served as president of the New Belgrade municipality. He transitioned from the Democratic Party (DS) to lead the Serbian Patriotic Alliance before merging into the SNS in May 2021. Šapić achieved Olympic success as a water polo player, winning bronze in 2000 and 2008, and silver in 2004.

Željka Cvijanović is a prominent Bosnian Serb politician affiliated with the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats. She has held several key political positions, including serving as the 11th prime minister of Republika Srpska from 2013 to 2018. Subsequently, she became the 9th president of Republika Srpska, a role she held until 2022. In the recent 2022 general election, Cvijanović made history by being elected as the first female Serb member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, showcasing her significant influence and leadership in the political landscape.

Ivan Tasovac was a prominent Serbian pianist and manager known for his contributions to the cultural and political landscape of Serbia. He served as the director of the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra for over a decade, showcasing his leadership and artistic vision in the world of classical music. His career also extended to the realm of politics, where he held significant positions such as Minister of Culture and Information in the Serbian government. Tasovac's diverse professional background exemplified his dedication to both music and public service.

Dragan Đilas is a Serbian businessman and politician who has held various significant positions in the government and political arena. He served as the mayor of Belgrade, Minister without Portfolio, and director of the People's Office of the President. Additionally, he was the President of the Democratic Party and later formed the Alliance for Serbia. He also briefly led the Basketball Federation of Serbia before resigning. Currently, he is the president of the Party of Freedom and Justice.

Čedomir Jovanović is a Serbian politician and businessman. He rose to prominence during the presidency of Slobodan Milošević as a student leader in the 1996–1997 protests in Serbia. He co-founded the "Student Political Club" and later joined the Democratic Party. After Milošević's overthrow, he became one of the youngest parliamentary caucus leaders in Serbian history. Despite facing assassination attempts and attacks, he continued his political career, founding the Liberal Democratic Party after being expelled from the Democratic Party in 2004.

Matija Nenadović, also known as Prota Mateja, was a Serbian archpriest, writer, and politician. He served as the first prime minister of Serbia from 1805 to 1807, playing a significant role in the First Serbian Uprising. Nenadović's professional life was marked by his leadership in the political and religious spheres of Serbia. As an archpriest, writer, and politician, he contributed to the development of Serbia during a crucial period in its history, leaving a lasting impact on the country's governance and culture.

Konstantin "Koča" Popović was a Serbian and Yugoslav politician, a communist volunteer in the Spanish Civil War, and the Divisional Commander of the First Proletarian Division of the Yugoslav Partisans. He played a crucial role in saving the Yugoslav Partisans during the Battle of Sutjeska by anticipating and breaking through the Axis lines. Post-war, he served as the Chief of the General Staff of the Yugoslav People's Army, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Vice President of Yugoslavia. Popović was also a supporter of free-market reforms and a member of the Serbian liberals political movement.

Mirko Cvetković is a Serbian economist and former politician who served as the Prime Minister of Serbia from 2008 to 2012. Prior to his role as Prime Minister, he also served as the Finance Minister. Cvetković was known for his nonpartisan approach and was endorsed by the For a European Serbia coalition. During his tenure, Serbia made significant progress towards EU accession, including the abolishment of visas for Serbian citizens and obtaining EU candidate status. His leadership also saw Serbia fulfill obligations to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia amidst challenges such as the Kosovo declaration of independence and the Great Recession.

Svetozar Pribićević was a prominent Croatian Serb politician known for advocating Yugoslavism and a federalized South Slavic state. He played a key role in the political landscape of Austria-Hungary and later in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Pribićević's support for the idea of Yugoslavia was significant, but he eventually became a vocal critic of King Alexander I's policies, leading to a shift in his stance. Despite this, his influence on the development of Yugoslav identity and politics was lasting.

Stojan Protić was a prominent Serbian politician and writer known for his contributions to Serbian parliamentarism. He served as the prime minister of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia, during two terms in 1918-1919 and 1920. Protić played a crucial role as a key theoretician of Serbian parliamentarism, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of the country. His professional life was marked by his dedication to public service and his influential work in shaping the government's policies and structures.

Nada Kostić is a Serbian medical doctor, academic, and politician known for her professional achievements in public service. She briefly held the position of Serbia's minister of health in the transitional government following the fall of Slobodan Milošević's administration in 2000. Kostić has also been elected to the National Assembly of Serbia on two occasions, showcasing her dedication to public service and commitment to making a positive impact in the political and healthcare sectors.

Vojislav Tankosić was a Serbian military officer known for his roles as a vojvoda of the Serbian Chetnik Organization, major of the Serbian Army, and a member of the Black Hand. He played a significant role in the May Coup and was accused of involvement in the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Tankosić's professional life was marked by his leadership in military organizations and his involvement in key historical events that had a lasting impact on the region during his time.

Petar Dobrović was a prominent Serbian painter and politician known for his significant contributions to the art world. He was recognized for his unique style characterized by vibrant colors and bold brushwork. Dobrović's work often depicted scenes from Serbian landscapes and historical events, showcasing his profound connection to his country's culture and heritage. In addition to his successful career as a painter, he also served as a politician, using his influence to advocate for the arts and cultural preservation.

Zoran Lilić is a Serbian and former Yugoslav politician who served as President of the National Assembly of Serbia and as President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. He was also a director general at a rubber factory, an MP of the Socialist Party of Serbia, Speaker of the National Assembly, and vice president of the Federal Government. He later founded the Serbian Socialdemocratic Party and was involved in diplomatic efforts related to the HIV trial in Libya.

Milorad Vučelić is a prominent figure in the Serbian media industry, serving as the editor-in-chief of Večernje novosti, a well-known newspaper. Additionally, he is the owner of the Serbian weekly magazine Pečat, further solidifying his influence and presence in the media landscape. With a career spanning journalism and business, Vučelić has made significant contributions to the field through his editorial work and ownership of media outlets, shaping public discourse and opinions in Serbia.

Jovan Ristić was a prominent Serbian figure known for his contributions as a politician, diplomat, and historian. He played a key role in shaping Serbian political affairs and foreign relations during the 19th century. Ristić's diplomatic skills were evident in his negotiations with other European powers, working to advance Serbia's interests on the international stage. As a historian, he provided valuable insights into the country's past, helping to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage for future generations.

Zorana Mihajlović is a Serbian politician who held various prominent positions in the Serbian government. She served as deputy prime minister of Serbia from 2014 to 2022 and as minister of mining and energy from 2012 to 2014, and again from 2020 to 2022. She was also the minister of construction, transport, and infrastructure from 2014 to 2020. Mihajlović is known for her contributions to the fields of mining, energy, construction, transport, and infrastructure during her tenure in government.

Zmago Jelinčič "Plemeniti" is a Slovenian politician and author. He is the head of the Slovenian National Party (Slovene: Slovenska Nacionalna Stranka, SNS). Jelinčič founded the party in March 1991, which went on to win over 11% of votes in the 1992 Slovenian National Assembly elections. He has been a candidate in multiple Presidential Elections, achieving notable results such as polling 8.49% in 2002 and almost 20% in 2007. Jelinčič announced his intention to run once more in the 2017 Presidential Election.

Željko Ražnatović, also known as Arkan, was a Serbian mobster and leader of the Serb paramilitary group, the Serb Volunteer Guard. He gained notoriety for his involvement in robberies and murders across Europe, earning a spot on Interpol's most wanted list. Indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for crimes against humanity, Ražnatović was considered the most influential figure in organized crime in the Balkans until his assassination in 2000.

Ljubomir Davidović was a prominent Yugoslav and Serbian politician who made significant contributions as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. He held the position twice, in 1919-1920 and again in 1924. Davidović played a key role in the early years of Yugoslavia, advocating for unity among the diverse ethnic groups within the country. He was known for his leadership and efforts to promote cooperation and stability in the newly formed kingdom during a critical period of its history.

Tommy Lapid was a Yugoslav-born Israeli radio and television presenter, playwright, journalist, politician, and government minister known for his sharp tongue and acerbic wit. He headed the secular-liberal Shinui party and fiercely opposed ultra-Orthodox political parties, advocating for the exclusion of religious observance from the legal structure of Israel. Lapid's professional life was defined by his dedication to public service, his outspoken nature in politics, and his role in shaping the secular-liberal agenda in Israel during his leadership of the Shinui party.

Stojan Novaković was a prominent Serbian figure known for his contributions in politics, history, diplomacy, and literature. He served as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Serbia, held various ministerial positions, and led the Progressive Party. Novaković was a skilled diplomat, representing Serbia in key European capitals. He was also a noted intellectual, serving as president of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, head of the National Library, and a professor at Belgrade's Grande école. His work in historiography established him as a key figure in modern Serbian historical scholarship.

Konstantin "Kosta" Nađ was a Yugoslav Partisan army general who led Partisan units during World War II in Yugoslavia, with a focus on the Vojvodina region. He was well-known for his involvement in the Spanish Civil War and his significant role in the Yugoslav People's Liberation War. Nađ's 3rd Army made substantial advancements through Yugoslavia and Austria. He also served as the president of the Yugoslav Partisans' veteran association. Nađ passed away in Belgrade at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of military leadership and dedication to the Partisan cause.

Aleksandra Pivec is a Slovenian chemical engineer and politician who has held various significant roles in her professional career. She served as Slovenia's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Food from 2018 to 2020, where she played a crucial role in shaping agricultural policies and initiatives. Furthermore, she also served as the Deputy Prime Minister for a brief period from March to October 2020. Pivec's contributions in these roles have showcased her dedication to public service and her expertise in agricultural and governmental affairs.

Vuk Drašković is a Serbian writer and politician known for his leadership in the Serbian Renewal Movement. He held key government positions, including war-time Deputy Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1999 and Minister of Foreign Affairs of both Serbia and Montenegro from 2004 to 2007. He graduated from the University of Belgrade Faculty of Law in 1968 and worked as a journalist at the Yugoslav news agency Tanjug. Drašković's professional life also includes roles within the League of Communists of Yugoslavia and as chief of staff to Yugoslav President Mika Špiljak.

Đorđe Vajfert was a prominent Serbian industrialist who served as the Governor of the National Bank of Serbia and later the National Bank of Yugoslavia. He is credited with being the founder of the modern mining sector in Serbia and was known for his significant contributions as a benefactor. Vajfert's professional life was characterized by his leadership in the banking sector and his pivotal role in developing the mining industry in the region, leaving a lasting impact on the economy and industrial landscape of Serbia.

Sanda Rašković Ivić is a prominent Serbian psychiatrist and psychotherapist with a distinguished political career. She held various key positions, including commissioner for refugees, president of the Coordination Center for Kosovo and Metohija, and Serbian ambassador to Italy. As the former president of the Democratic Party of Serbia and current vice-president of the People's Party, she has been actively engaged in Serbian politics. Additionally, Sanda is an accomplished author in the field of psychiatry and psychotherapy, contributing significantly to the professional discourse in these areas.

Pavle Bakić was a distinguished military leader and the last titular Despot of Serbia. He was a prominent figure among the Serbian nobility in the Kingdom of Hungary, known for his prowess in battle against the Ottoman Empire. Notably, he played key roles in battles such as the Battle of Mohács in 1526 and the Battle of Vienna in 1529. His military career culminated in his valiant efforts at the Battle of Gorjani in 1537, where he met his tragic demise.

Kaqusha Jashari is a Kosovo Albanian politician and engineer. She has been a member of the Assembly of Kosovo on the Democratic Party of Kosovo list since 2007. From 1986 to November 1988, she was one of the two leading Kosovo politicians alongside Azem Vllasi. Both were dismissed in the "anti-bureaucratic revolution" for their opposition to constitutional amendments limiting Kosovo's autonomy. They were replaced by allies of Slobodan Milošević. Jashari's professional life has been marked by her political career and engineering background.

Edita Tahiri is a prominent figure in Kosovo's political landscape, known for her leadership in the independence movement and her roles in various government positions. She has served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister, and chief negotiator for Kosovo in peace talks. Tahiri is a Harvard University graduate with a master's degree in public administration and a doctoral degree in political sciences. She is also a published author, lecturer, and advocate for gender equality and empowerment.

Aleksandar Vulin is a Serbian politician and lawyer with a diverse professional background. He has held various significant positions in the Serbian government, including serving as Deputy Prime Minister, director of the Security Intelligence Agency, director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, minister without portfolio, minister of labour, employment, veteran and social policy, minister of defence, and minister of internal affairs. Vulin is also known for founding and leading the Movement of Socialists party and has been associated with several other political parties throughout his career.

Aleksandar Vučić is a Serbian politician serving as the president of Serbia since 2017. He began his political career in 1993 and was a member of the far-right Serbian Radical Party before co-founding the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in 2008. Vučić held various governmental positions, including minister of information and prime minister of Serbia. As president, he has focused on EU accession, economic reforms, and normalizing relations with Kosovo. Vučić has been criticized for his authoritarian rule, curtailed press freedom, and declining civil liberties.

Jovan Deroko was a Serbian military commander, holding the rank of captain during World War II. He gained recognition for his leadership in coordinating joint Chetnik–Partisan operations, showcasing his strategic skills and ability to work across different factions for a common goal. Despite his efforts towards collaboration, Deroko met a tragic end when he was killed by Partisan soldiers. His professional life was marked by his dedication to military service and his role in navigating complex political and military landscapes during a tumultuous period in history.