Otokar Kersovani Yugoslav journalist, communist Date of Birth: 23.02.1902 Country: Dive

1. Early Life and Education
2. Entry into Journalism
3. Political Activism
4. Arrests and Imprisonment
5. Release and Final Arrest
6. Tragic End

Early Life and Education

Otokar Keršovani was born in Pazin, Istria, on October 26, 1899. At the age of 16, he left his native Croatia to attend high school in Karlovac, part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. Upon completing his secondary education, he enrolled in the Faculty of Forestry in Zagreb.

Entry into Journalism

As a student, Keršovani developed a keen interest in journalism. In 1922, he joined the Yugoslav Academic Club "Janušić" and became a contributor to the journal "Young Yugoslavia." A year later, he became one of the journal's editors. Keršovani also wrote for the Zagreb newspapers "Novosti" and "Slobodna Tribuna."

Political Activism

In 1925, Keršovani moved to Belgrade and became the editor of the agricultural newspaper "Novosti." There, he joined the League of Communist Youth of Yugoslavia (SKMJU) in 1927 and was elected to the Serbian committee of the SKMJU. The following year, he became a member of the Communist Party of Yugoslavia (KPJ).

Arrests and Imprisonment

Keršovani's political activities drew the attention of the authorities. He was arrested for the first time in 1928. After his release from prison, he resumed his party work in Belgrade. In 1930, he was arrested again and sentenced to 10 years in prison. While imprisoned, he wrote several short stories.

Release and Final Arrest

Keršovani was released from prison in 1940. However, on the night of March 30-31, 1941, he was rearrested. After the occupation of Yugoslavia by the Axis powers, he was transferred to the infamous Kerestinac concentration camp.

Tragic End

On July 9, 1941, Keršovani was executed in Zagreb, along with Božidar Adžija, Ognjen Prica, and seven other communists.