Montenegrins

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Map of the Montenegrin Diaspora in the World

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Proclamation of the Kingdom of Montenegro

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Petar II Petrovic-Njegos

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Flag of Montenegro (1852–1905)

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Flag of Montenegro (1905–1918)

Montenegrins (Crnogorci) are a South Slavic ethnic group native to Montenegro, a country in Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea. They form one of the principal ethnic groups in the region and share cultural and historical ties with other South Slavic nations, particularly Serbs, Bosniaks, and Croats. The Montenegrin identity has been historically influenced by the Orthodox Christian tradition, the legacy of the Ottoman Empire, and the region's mountainous geography, which has shaped its unique cultural and social characteristics.

History

The history of the Montenegrins is deeply intertwined with the history of the Balkans and the development of Montenegro as a state. In the Middle Ages, the area known today as Montenegro was a part of various Serbian states. With the decline of the Serbian Empire in the 14th century, Montenegro emerged as a distinct political entity, characterized by its clannish social structure and resistance to foreign domination, particularly the Ottoman Empire.

During the Ottoman period, Montenegro enjoyed a degree of autonomy, maintaining its Orthodox Christian faith and warrior culture. The Montenegrin identity was further solidified in the 19th century during the reign of Prince-Bishop Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, who is considered one of the most important figures in Montenegrin history and literature.

In the 20th century, Montenegro underwent significant changes, including a brief period as an independent kingdom before becoming a part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later known as the Kingdom of Yugoslavia) in 1918. After World War II, Montenegro became one of the six republics of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Montenegro formed a federation with Serbia, which lasted until 2006, when Montenegro declared its independence after a referendum.

Culture

Montenegrin culture is a rich tapestry of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, reflecting its geographic position and historical developments. Traditional Montenegrin culture is characterized by its folk music, dances, and costumes, which have been preserved and are still celebrated today. The Montenegrin language, which is part of the South Slavic group of languages, plays a crucial role in the national identity, although there is debate about its distinctiveness from Serbian.

Literature is another important aspect of Montenegrin culture, with figures like Petar II Petrović-Njegoš and contemporary authors contributing to the Montenegrin and broader South Slavic literary tradition. The Orthodox Christian faith also plays a significant role in Montenegrin cultural and social life, influencing its art, architecture, and traditions.

Demographics

Montenegrins are primarily found in Montenegro, where they make up the majority of the population. Significant Montenegrin communities also exist in neighboring countries, particularly Serbia, as well as in the diaspora, especially in the United States, Argentina, and Western Europe. The total number of Montenegrins is difficult to ascertain due to varying definitions of ethnicity and nationality, especially in census data.

Contemporary Issues

Today, Montenegro is a parliamentary republic that is navigating the challenges of economic development, European integration, and maintaining its cultural heritage. The question of national identity remains a topic of discussion and debate, particularly in relation to Serbia and the broader Serbian-Montenegrin community. Montenegro's path towards European Union membership and its role in the Western Balkans region are also significant aspects of its contemporary political and social landscape.

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