Kata Šoljić, born on this day in 1922, is remembered as a powerful symbol of both suffering and courage, representing all Croatian mothers who lost sons in the struggle for the nation's freedom during the Homeland War. Her life story is particularly poignant, highlighting her personal losses and tribulations, including the tragic deaths of her four brothers during World War II and her struggles following the war, which shaped her into a figure of resilience for many in Croatia's post-war society.

Born as Kata Tikvić in Distant Vukšić near Brčko, Bosnia, her childhood was marred by loss, with her father passing away when she was just 13 and her mother succumbing to grief in 1946. The harrowing experience of losing her brothers—two were killed in Bleiburg and two executed by partisans—added to her profound sorrow. Her husband, Antun, survived the Bleiburg tragedy and their trials continued in the form of persecution and hardship after the war, severely impacting their lives.

Through her experiences, Kata became a symbol not only of personal loss but also of the collective grief borne by many Croatian mothers during and after the wars. Her legacy remains a testament to the courage and strength of those who endured unimaginable sacrifice, eternally entwining her story with the national narrative of suffering and resilience in Croatia's pursuit of freedom.