Croatian National Resistance facts for kids

The Croatian National Resistance (known as Hrvatski narodni odpor in Croatian, or simply Odpor) was a group formed by Croatians who had left their home country. Their main goal was to break up the country of Yugoslavia and create an independent Croatia. They followed the ideas of a group called the Ustaše and their leader, Ante Pavelić.

What Was the Croatian National Resistance?

The Croatian National Resistance, or Odpor, was an organization that used extreme methods to try and achieve its political goals. It was made up of people who had left Croatia after World War II. They strongly believed in the idea of an independent Croatian state.

How It Started

Odpor was founded in 1955. It was started by Vjekoslav Luburić. He was a former leader in the Ustaše movement during World War II. Luburić had been a chief guard at a place called the Jasenovac concentration camp. After the war, he escaped and later formed this new organization.

Their Goals and Ideas

The main aim of the Croatian National Resistance was to end the existence of Yugoslavia. Yugoslavia was a country that included Croatia and several other nations. Odpor wanted to see Croatia become its own independent country. Their ideas were based on the strong nationalist beliefs of the Ustaše movement. They followed the vision of Ustaše leader Ante Pavelić and the ideas of Mile Budak.

What They Did

To spread their message, the organization published its own magazine. This magazine was called Drina. It helped them share their views and goals with others who supported their cause.

When Did It End?

The Croatian National Resistance continued its activities for many years. However, the organization was officially dissolved in 1991. This was the same year that Croatia declared its independence from Yugoslavia.