Montenegro is side by side and separated from Serbia
In the complex history of the Balkans, Montenegro's relations with Serbia have always attracted much attention. The two countries fought side by side many times in history, but eventually went their separate ways. Why did such a close relationship end up like this? This article will explore this in depth.
1. Historical background: common enemies and cooperation
Serbia and Montenegro were part of Yugoslavia, and together they faced external enemies such as the Ottoman Empire and Austria-Hungary. These common enemies prompted them to cooperate in many wars.
Case in point: In the Balkan Wars and World War I, the two countries fought side by side against a common enemy.
2. Internal differences: different political and cultural orientations
Although external enemies have prompted them to cooperate, there are still political, cultural and religious differences between the two countries. Montenegro has a unique identity and autonomy in its long history, while Serbia wants to establish a united Yugoslav state in the Balkans.
Case in point: After World War I, the creation of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia led to a closer merger of Serbia and Montenegro, but this merger did not enjoy widespread support from Montenegro.
3. The Causes of Separation: The Rise of Statism
Over time, especially in the 80s and 90s of the 20th century, with the rise of nationalism, cracks began to appear in relations between Montenegro and Serbia.
Case in point: In 1992, Yugoslavia dissolved and Serbia and Montenegro formed the new Federal Republic. However, over time, the differences between the two countries became more and more pronounced, until Montenegro held a referendum in 2006 to choose independence.
Conclusion:
The relationship between Serbia and Montenegro is a microcosm of the complex history of the Balkans. Despite their shared enemies and history of fighting side by side, internal differences and the rise of nationalism eventually led to their separation. When we look back at history, we can see that the delicate balance between politics, culture and religion is very complex and difficult to maintain for a long time.