Yugoslavia Key Documents​​​
SECRET
This 11-page airgram from Embassy Belgrade to the Department of State dissects Yugoslavia’s increasing difficulties as a non-aligned country in its “attempts at fusing the two worlds,” and how the U.S. should respond to such strain. As Yugoslavia's position in the non-aligned movement faces uncertainty, "its voice is becoming shriller" – especially in attacks against U.S. foreign policy. Embassy Belgrade recommends "exchanges, cultural ties, and economic contacts" to forge a path forward in the otherwise bleak diplomatic situation.
This CIA Special Report documents Aleksandar Rankovic’s motivations and methods for securing his title as Tito’s successor. His corrupt usage of the secret police led to Tito ousting the former heir and implementing sweeping reforms within the government. Every change – including greater public participation and reducing conflicts of interest between the party and government – aimed to solidify Yugoslavia’s liberal course as part of Tito’s legacy. The document also provides an effective snapshot of Yugoslavia’s internal politics at the time, with sections dedicated to assessing national and ideological tensions in reference to Rankovic’s former party platform.
This unassuming letter on the U.S.-Yugoslavia tobacco trade provides an effective snapshot of the U.S. democratic system. As organized pressure groups inflict economic intimidation on American tobacco companies for purchasing Yugoslav tobacco, this letter reminds the aggressors that conducting autonomous foreign policy interferes with the Constitution and the power vested in Congress. The authors make it clear that trading with Yugoslavia, a communist country, aligns with U.S. national security priorities despite existing trade restrictions on China, Cuba, North Korea, and North Vietnam.
In Yugoslavia, “the first faltering steps toward a limited type of democracy are being taken,” according to this CIA special report. The document charts parliament’s transition from a “rubber stamp,” propaganda-serving institution to having a tangible impact in Congress. As the country took steps toward liberalization, parliament members began to feel out their new powers through contesting laws and answering to constituents’ concerns. Amidst these changes was the rise of Kardelj (a new prospective leader of Yugoslavia) and a decrease in party involvement in day-to-day congressional affairs.
