Croats

Map of the Croatian Diaspora in the World (2022)

Distribution of Croatian ethnonym in the Middle Ages

Oton Ivekovic, Dolazak Hrvata na Jadran

Oton Ivekovic, Krunidba kralja Tomislava

Bascanska ploca

Pacta Conventa (Croatia)

Croats are a South Slavic ethnic group native to Croatia, as well as to parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and other neighboring countries. They are predominantly associated with the Croatian language and the Roman Catholic Church.

History

The history of the Croats dates back to the early medieval period. The first mention of Croats in historical records is from the 7th century when they settled in the area of present-day Croatia. The Kingdom of Croatia was established in the 10th century and became a significant political entity in the region.

Medieval Period

During the medieval period, the Croats established several important states, including the Kingdom of Croatia and the Kingdom of Croatia (Habsburg). The Personal Union of Croatia and Hungary in 1102 marked a significant turning point, leading to centuries of Hungarian and later Habsburg influence.

Modern Period

In the 19th century, the rise of nationalism led to the Croatian National Revival, which sought greater autonomy within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following the collapse of the empire after World War I, Croatia became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia.

During World War II, the Independent State of Croatia was established as a Nazi puppet state. After the war, Croatia became a constituent republic of socialist Yugoslavia. The Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s led to Croatia's independence and international recognition.

Culture

Croatian culture is a blend of various influences, including Central European, Mediterranean, and Balkan traditions. The Croatian language is written in the Latin alphabet and has several dialects, including Chakavian, Kajkavian, and Shtokavian.

Religion

The majority of Croats are Roman Catholic, and the church plays a significant role in Croatian culture and traditions. Important religious sites include the Cathedral of Zagreb and the Shrine of Our Lady of Marija Bistrica.

Cuisine

Croatian cuisine varies by region but generally includes a mix of Mediterranean and Central European dishes. Popular foods include pasticada, sarma, and various seafood dishes along the coast.

Demographics

Croats are the majority ethnic group in Croatia, where they make up about 90% of the population. Significant Croatian communities also exist in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in the region of Herzegovina, as well as in the United States, Canada, Australia, and other countries due to historical waves of emigration.

Notable Croats

• Nikola Tesla - Inventor and electrical engineer
• Ivan Meštrović - Sculptor
• Rudjer Boskovic - Physicist and astronomer
• Slavenka Drakulić - Writer and journalist

Related Pages

• Croatia
• Croatian language
• History of Croatia
• Kingdom of Croatia
• Croatian War of Independence
• Roman Catholic Church in Croatia