A Slovenian lawyer and politician who played a key role in the country's independence from Yugoslavia, serving as the President of the Slovenian National Assembly. He's known for his contributions to Slovenia's constitutional development.
Boris Furlan, a renowned Slovenian jurist, philosopher of law, translator, and liberal politician, is best known for his courageous work as a speaker on Radio London during World War II, earning him the nickname "London's Slovene voice." As a strong advocate for democracy and human rights, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Slovenian resistance movement against fascist and communist regimes.
Born on November 10, 1894, in Trieste, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Furlan grew up in a middle-class Slovene family. He attended private Slovene language schools in Trieste and later pursued an intensive English course at the local Berlitz language school, where he was a pupil of the celebrated Irish novelist James Joyce.
Furlan's academic excellence led him to study law at the University of Paris, and later, at the University of Vienna and the University of Bologna, where he completed his studies after the end of World War I. In 1920, he obtained a PhD from the University of Zagreb.
After returning to his hometown of Trieste, which had become part of the Kingdom of Italy, Furlan worked as an assistant in the Josip Wilfan law firm. In 1925, he established his own law practice and navigated the complex landscape of fascist Italy by obtaining a permit to publish a Slovene-language legal journal, Pravni vestnik (The Legal Herald). This journal, which was eventually abolished in 1928, served as a platform for Furlan and Wilfan to publish numerous texts on legal philosophy and legal theory.
In 1930, Furlan escaped to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia to evade fascist persecution and went on to open a law practice in Ljubljana in 1931. During this period, he worked closely with Josip Wilfan, who became one of the leaders of the Congress of European Nationalities.
During World War II, Furlan's courage and conviction led him to become a speaker on Radio London, where he broadcast messages of hope and resistance to the Slovenian people. His powerful oratory skills and unwavering commitment to democracy earned him the admiration of his countrymen.
In 1945, Furlan served as a Minister in the Titou-Šubašić coalition government, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in Slovenian politics. However, his political career was cut short when he was convicted by the Yugoslav Communist authorities at the Nagode Trial in 1947.
Boris Furlan's contributions to Slovenian history and legal philosophy continue to inspire generations of scholars, politicians, and activists. His unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and the Slovenian cause has left an indelible mark on the country's struggle for independence and self-determination.
A true visionary and champion of freedom, Furlan's life serves as a testament to the power of courage, conviction, and intellectual curiosity. His remarkable journey, marked by triumph and tragedy, continues to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the importance of standing up against oppression and fighting for the values that define us as human beings.
Born in 1892
Led the Yugoslav Partisans to victory in World War II and later became a unifying figure, serving as the President of Yugoslavia from 1953 to 1980. He's known for his unique blend of communist and nationalist policies.
Born in 1910
A Slovene general, economist, and politician who played a key role in shaping Yugoslavia's post-WWII economy and foreign policy, and is known for his efforts to decentralize the Yugoslav government.
Born in 1925
A Slovene poet, writer, translator, journalist, and politician who made significant contributions to Slovenian literature and culture, known for his lyrical poetry and literary translations.
Born in 1919
The 25th Prime Minister of Yugoslavia, a key figure in the country's post-WWII era, known for his efforts to maintain national unity and stability. He played a crucial role in shaping Yugoslavia's socialist government and economy.
76 Years Old
Slovenia's second president, a key figure in the country's transition to independence and democracy, known for his economic reforms and leadership during a tumultuous period.
