VlachsRomanians

The Vlachs, also known as Romanians, are an Eastern Romance ethnic group native to the Balkans and the Danube region. They are part of the larger Romance ethnic group, which includes Italians, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. The term "Vlach" is derived from the Latin word "Valachus," which was used to describe the inhabitants of the Danube region in the Middle Ages. Over time, the term "Romanian" became more commonly used to refer to this group.

The Romanian language, spoken by the Vlachs, is a Romance language with significant influences from Slavic and other languages. It is written in the Latin script and has a rich literary tradition. The Vlachs have a distinct cultural identity, with their own traditions, customs, and folklore. They are predominantly Orthodox Christians, although there are also significant communities of Roman Catholics and Protestants.

The Vlachs have a long history in the Balkans and the Danube region. They have played significant roles in the political and cultural history of these areas, including the formation of the Romanian state in the 19th century. Today, the Vlachs, or Romanians, are one of the largest ethnic groups in Europe, with a population of over 23 million people. They are primarily concentrated in Romania, but there are also significant Romanian communities in other countries, including Moldova, Ukraine, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and the United States.