Today is July 13, the day Montenegro celebrates its Statehood Day – and it’s not just another holiday on the calendar! This is the day when Montenegro, back in 1878, at the Berlin Congress, gained international recognition as an independent state. Yes, you read that right – a country that survived and fought for freedom in the heart of the Balkans! But wait, there’s more. Exactly 63 years later, in 1941, Montenegro rose up in the largest uprising in occupied Europe against fascist terror – the July 13 Uprising!
Montenegro’s President, Jakov Milatović, at a ceremonial reception at the Cetinje residence, didn’t hold back: July 13 is not just a date, it’s a symbol of freedom, honor, and dignity. He reminds us that in the face of injustice and dark ideologies, we must never bow down.
Imagine this – at the Berlin Congress, where the great powers of Europe met, Montenegro fought for the right to decide its own fate. This was a battle of stubborn people from the rugged Montenegrin mountains, who for centuries defended their land and freedom. Then, in 1941, the same people rose against fascism, showing the world what resistance and courage mean.
Today, as Milatović says, the flame of July 13 still lights Montenegro’s path. We fight for a well-organized state, strong institutions, and rules that apply equally to all. Work, knowledge, and effort are valued, and no one is above the law.
But let’s be honest – how many of us truly understand and appreciate this day? Do we remember the sacrifices and heroes who made it possible for us to live free today? Or is July 13 just another day for chilling and barbecues?
This day obliges us to constantly strive for universal values of freedom and to never forget who we are and where we come from. So next time you sip your coffee or stroll the streets of Cetinje, remember that the freedom you enjoy was bought with great sacrifices and injustice that our ancestors rejected.
And hey, if you have a funny or ironic take on how July 13 is celebrated, feel free to share it – maybe you’ll remind someone just how important this day really is! Who knows, you might be surprised how cool history actually is when you take a closer look.
