Jozjans

Jozjans, also known as the Jojans, are an ethnic group native to the republic of Georgia. They primarily inhabit the region of Samegrelo (also known as Mingrelia)- a coastal province located in the northwestern part of Georgia.

The Jozjans are one of the several autochthonous ethnic groups in Georgia, alongside the Kartvels, Svans, and others. They have been living in the region of Samegrelo for centuries, with their history and culture closely intertwined with the history of the region.

Language

The Jozjans traditionally spoke a dialect of the Mingrelian language- a unique variety of the Kartvelian language family. Although the Mingrelian language is now considered an endangered language with only a few thousand native speakers remaining, efforts have been made to document and preserve it.

Culture and Traditions

The culture and traditions of the Jozjans are distinct and have been influenced by their geographic location and history. The Jozjans have historically practiced a mix of agriculture and livestock herding. They traditionally celebrated a number of cultural festivals and holidays throughout the year, many of which are still observed today.

Demographics

The population of the Jozjans is relatively small and constitutes a significant minority group within Georgian society. While there are few reliable estimates of their numbers, they are considered a distinct ethnic group in Georgia.

Historical Development

Throughout history, the Jozjans have maintained a strong sense of cultural identity. They have preserved many of their historical traditions, and their contribution to Georgian society has been significant. However, like many minority groups, they also face challenges related to the erosion of their cultural identity and language.