Osnove zemljopisa za I. razred srednjih i sličnih škola

Basics of Geography for the First Grade of Secondary and Similar Schools is a textbook compiled by Ivo Juras (1886–1948), a famous Croatian geographer, cartographer, high school teacher and author of several geographical manuals. It was published in 1943 in Zagreb by the Publishing Department of the Croatian State Printing House, during the period of the Independent State of Croatia.

The book is intended for the first grade of secondary schools (gymnasiums, realkas and similar schools) as an introduction to geography. It contains the basics of physical geography: the shape and size of the Earth, the movement of the Earth, maps and cartography, climate, relief, hydrography, and basic concepts about flora and fauna in relation to natural zones. Special attention is paid to general geographical laws and their application, with an emphasis on a pedagogical approach adapted to students.

Ivo Juras, born in Zadar, studied geography and history in Zagreb, Graz and Vienna. He was a long-time high school teacher and the author of several textbooks and popular science works (e.g. Geography of Yugoslavia, Our Sea and Coast, Around the World). This textbook represents part of his pedagogical work in which he sought to provide high-quality and clear material for teaching geography in Croatian schools.

The textbook is illustrated with maps, sketches and pictures, which was an important component for understanding geographical concepts. It is written in clear, professional, but student-friendly Croatian, typical of school literature of the period. It reflects the curriculum of the time, which combined general geography with elements of homeland geography.

In a broader context, this edition testifies to the continuity of Croatian geographical literature and education even in wartime conditions in 1943. Juras was active in Catholic organizations and Croatian cultural life, which influenced his pedagogical approach.