National liberation struggle, organized resistance and courage: A look at the anti-fascist movement in Banat during the Second World War. An investigation of the geographical, political and social conditions that shaped the struggle against the Nazi occupation, with an emphasis on the role of partisan units, local cooperation and the challenges of the lack of war materials. A depiction of the heroism and sacrifices of young fighters in the fight for freedom and justice.

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Žarko Turinski Arsa (1913–1943)

Andrija Popović Anti-fascist struggle in Banat 1941-1944 Hits: 1048

Žarko Turinski was one of the most prominent participants in the People's Liberation Struggle (NOB) in Banat. He organized and led partisan units and participated in many of the most dangerous actions against the occupiers.

He was born in Veliki Bečkerek in 1913. He associated with Jovan Trajković, a well-known communist and youth leader, through whom he became acquainted with leftist ideas. He joined the Communist Party of Yugoslavia (KPJ) in 1936 and from then on dedicated himself uncompromisingly to revolutionary work. Many meetings of the League of Communist Youth of Yugoslavia (SKOJ) and KPJ committees were held at his farm and in his house. The uprising in Banat was launched precisely at his farm on June 23, 1941. During the summer, the Banat Headquarters of the People's Liberation Partisan Detachments was formed in his house. He was the deputy commander and participated in many actions against the occupiers, fearlessly leading the fighters. He wanted to put an end to the terrible terror in Banat and attempted to assassinate Juraj Špiler. Žarko Turinski committed suicide on January 3, 1943, refusing to surrender alive. Several streets in Vojvodina are named after him.