Kingdom of Montenegro

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Balkan states 1899

Flag of Montenegro (1905-1918 & 1941-1944)

Montenegro1913

Proclamation of the Kingdom of Montenegro

Kingdom of Montenegro was a monarchy in southeastern Europe, located in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula. It existed from 1910 until 1918, emerging from the Principality of Montenegro and preceding the unification into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The Kingdom of Montenegro was led by King Nicholas I, who had previously ruled as Prince since 1860 before proclaiming the kingdom in 1910. This period was marked by efforts towards modernization, expansion of diplomatic relations, and participation in the Balkan Wars and World War I.

History

The transformation from a principality to a kingdom was proclaimed by Nicholas I in response to the changing political landscape of Europe and the Balkans in the early 20th century. The proclamation of the kingdom was also a move to solidify Montenegro's sovereignty and its status on the international stage.

Balkan Wars

Montenegro played a significant role in the Balkan Wars (1912-1913), aligning with other Balkan states against the Ottoman Empire to expand its territory. The kingdom made significant gains, notably the acquisition of the city of Shkodër, although it was later forced to relinquish it to the newly established state of Albania under international pressure.

World War I

During World War I, Montenegro aligned with the Entente Powers. Despite fierce resistance, it was occupied by Austro-Hungarian forces in 1916. King Nicholas fled to Italy and then to France, where he sought support for the Montenegrin cause. In 1918, Montenegro was liberated, but the post-war period brought significant political turmoil.

Unification with Serbia

The end of World War I saw significant political changes in the Balkans, including the movement towards unification of South Slavic peoples. Despite opposition from King Nicholas and a segment of the Montenegrin population, the Podgorica Assembly in November 1918 voted to unite with the Kingdom of Serbia. This unification laid the groundwork for the creation of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, marking the end of the Kingdom of Montenegro as an independent entity.

Legacy

The Kingdom of Montenegro, though short-lived, played a crucial role in the history of the Balkans and the formation of Yugoslavia. Its legacy is evident in Montenegro's cultural and historical identity, contributing to the nation's narrative of independence and sovereignty.

See also

• History of Montenegro
• Nicholas I of Montenegro
• Balkan Wars
• World War I in Montenegro