The Montenegrin National Foundation has declared May 13th as Montenegrin Victory Day, a national holiday.

“This date marks the pivotal Montenegrin military victory over the Ottoman army in the Battle of Grahovac, which occurred on May 13, 1858. This triumph was crucial in reshaping Montenegro’s political landscape, leading to significant territorial gains and recognition as a sovereign state by major European powers. It highlights Prince Danilo’s astute decision to pursue diplomatic efforts through military success. Consequently, he secured Montenegro’s independence and formal international recognition, establishing a clear boundary between Montenegro and the Ottoman Empire, as backed by international actors. The recognition and determination of Montenegro’s borders were instrumental in its internationally acknowledged independence at the 1878 Berlin Peace Conference,” stated President Ivan Jovović in the Montenegrin National Foundation’s announcement.

The statement further noted that the victory over Turkey received considerable attention and was favorably covered in European media.

“The Montenegrin military victory not only caught the eye of the international community but also prompted an international initiative for boundary delineation between Montenegro and Turkey, leading to the Ambassadorial Conference in Constantinople, where final decisions were made on this matter. The Protocol from this conference led to the de facto international recognition of Montenegro’s independence. The Battle of Grahovac thus stands as a monumental symbol of Montenegrin heroism in modern history, warranting its observance as a national holiday – Montenegrin Victory Day,” expressed Matica Crnogorska.

They further emphasized that the victory at Grahovac epitomizes the numerous triumphs of the Montenegrin army against adversaries throughout history and represents the peak of Montenegrin valor.

“This victory heralded a new era of peace and state development for Montenegro, transforming it from merely a military stronghold to a nation rooted in prosperity and the rule of law. Following the Battle of Grahovac, Montenegro entered a new phase of political, cultural, and national liberation, gaining equality among European nations on the strength of its own capabilities. The advancements made during Prince Danilo Petrović Njegoš’ reign laid the groundwork for the international sovereignty of modern Montenegro,” according to Matica Crnogorska.

The goal of establishing this holiday is “to reinforce the ethos of statehood and national unity in Montenegro, fostering a historical consciousness among its citizens.”

“It’s essential for Montenegrin society to collectively honor the sacrifices of our ancestors, using this celebration as a means to symbolically unify the nation on the rich foundations of our storied past. Montenegrin Victory Day will further validate the historical entitlement of the Montenegrin people to their own state, earned through centuries of struggle for freedom,” stated Matica Crnogorska.

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