Planinc, Milka (1924–)

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Planinc, Milka (1924–)

Yugoslav politician. Born Milka Malada, 1924, in Croatia.

The 1st woman to serve as prime minister of a Communist country (Croatia), joined Marshal Tito's Liberation Army during WWII; began political career after the war as a member of League of Yugoslav Communists; eventually became head of the League and a member of the National Parliament, where she earned a reputation as a tough politician; became prime minister of Croatia (May 1982), following the inauguration of a new policy to rotate senior government posts to nationals within the various Yugoslavian provinces; served until May 15, 1986.