Josip Broz Tito's Death (1980)

Josip Broz Tito, the long-time leader of Yugoslavia, died on May 4, 1980. His passing marked the end of an era as he had been a unifying figure in the ethnically diverse country since World War II. Tito was known for his non-aligned stance during the Cold War, keeping Yugoslavia independent from Soviet influence. After his death, the country faced rising ethnic tensions and political instability, eventually leading to its disintegration in the 1990s. Tito's leadership style and legacy continue to be debated, highlighting the complexities of his role in Yugoslav history.