Montenegrins

Montenegrins are a South Slavic ethnic group native to Montenegro, a country in Southeast Europe. They form the largest ethnic group in Montenegro, with minorities including Serbs, Bosniaks, Albanians, and others. The Montenegrin diaspora is sizable in neighboring countries and in communities around the world.

Language and identity: The standard language of Montenegrins is Montenegrin, though many also speak Serbian, Bosnian, or Croatian. Montenegrin is officially recognized in Montenegro; speakers often use Serbo-Croatian varieties in daily life. The term Montenegrin is also used to denote a national identity distinct from a wider Serb or Yugoslav identity, though politics and self-identification can be complex.

History: The modern Montenegrin national identity emerged from medieval and early modern Montenegro, with the ruling Petrović-Njegoš dynasty shaping national culture. Montenegro gained de facto independence in 1878 and de jure recognition, then joined the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes in 1918. It remained part of Yugoslavia through the 20th century and became an independent state again in 2006 after a referendum.

Religion and culture: The population is predominantly Eastern Orthodox, with Catholic and Muslim communities present mainly along the coast and in certain inland areas. Traditional culture includes epic poetry, folk music, and a diverse culinary heritage. Montenegrin society has urban and rural contrasts and a history shaped by its mountainous terrain and coastal trade.