Slavic peoples

Slavic peoples or Slavs are the largest Indo-European ethno-linguistic group in Europe. They are native to Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Southeastern Europe, Northeastern Europe, North Asia and Central Asia. Slavs speak Slavic languages and share, to varying degrees, certain cultural traits and historical backgrounds.

History

The origins of the Slavs are still a matter of considerable controversy, with theories ranging from local evolution in situ, to migration from outside the Carpathian Mountains. The first written use of the word "Slavs" dates to the 6th century, when the Slavic tribes inhabited a large portion of Central and Eastern Europe.

Early History

The early history of the Slavic peoples is somewhat obscure. The first clear reference to a Slavonic people dates back to the 6th century by the Byzantine historian Procopius, who described them as barbarians.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Slavic tribes were often at war with each other, as well as with non-Slavic countries. This period saw the emergence of the first Slavic states, including the Kievan Rus'.

Modern Era

In the modern era, Slavs constitute a large number of independent nations in Central and Eastern Europe, and they form significant minorities in other countries.

Culture

Slavic cultures are rich and varied, due to the wide geographical spread of the Slavic peoples. Despite this, there are certain cultural similarities among the Slavs, including a shared history and common linguistic roots.

Language

The Slavic languages, also known as the Slavonic languages, are a group of closely related languages of the Slavic peoples and a subgroup of the Indo-European languages.

Religion

Religion plays a significant role in the lives of many Slavs. The majority of Slavs are Orthodox Christians, followed by Catholic and Protestant.

See also

• History of the Slavs
• Slavic mythology
• Slavic languages
• Slavic (disambiguation)