Slováks

Slovaks are a West Slavic ethnic group, native to Slovakia and the surrounding regions. They share a common ancestry, language, and culture. The Slovak language is closely related to Czech and other Slavic languages. Historically, Slovaks have inhabited the Carpathian Mountains, an area that forms the heart of modern-day Slovakia. Their cultural heritage is rich, encompassing unique folk traditions, music, and cuisine.

The identity of the Slovaks has been shaped by centuries of history, including periods of being part of larger empires, such as the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The development of a distinct Slovak national consciousness gained momentum in the 19th century, leading to the establishment of Czechoslovakia after World War I and the eventual formation of independent Slovakia in 1993. The majority of Slovaks are adherents of Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the predominant denomination. The Slovaks living outside Slovakia are often found in neighboring countries like the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Serbia, as well as in diaspora communities around the world, particularly in North America. Their cultural contributions continue to be an integral part of the broader European heritage.