Georgians

Georgians is a demonym that refers to people associated with two places: the country of Georgia in the South Caucasus and the U.S. state of Georgia. The two populations are culturally distinct, and the term can indicate either ethnic Georgians or residents of the respective place. Context typically clarifies which Georgia is meant.

Georgians of the country Georgia: Ethnic Georgians form the majority, speaking Georgian, a Kartvelian language written in its own script. The predominant religion is Georgian Orthodox Christianity. The region has ancient roots with the kingdoms of Iberia and Colchis and a Christianization in the 4th century. Georgia achieved independence from the Russian Empire in the early 20th century, joined the Soviet Union, and regained independence in 1991. Since then it has faced territorial conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia and has pursued closer ties with Europe and various reforms. Georgian culture is noted for polyphonic singing, wine production, and distinctive cuisine such as khachapuri and khinkali.

Georgians of the U.S. state Georgia: Residents of the state, including those in major cities such as Atlanta, as well as smaller communities across the region. The population is diverse, reflecting internal migration and immigration. In many contexts, “Georgians” refers to inhabitants of the state rather than the country, though both uses are correct when the context makes the reference clear.