The Mystery of White Croatia and White Serbia: Language and Cultural Differences

There is little written trace of the existence of White Croatia and White Serbia. Speculations and hypotheses abound, but there is no concrete evidence. The early history of these regions remains shrouded in mystery.

Proto-Croatians: Origins and Migration

Proto-Croatians, a people with origins that are largely non-Slavic, are believed to have originated from the North or North-East. According to historical theories, they were likely encouraged by the Byzantine Empire to move towards the Adriatic. These Proto-Croatians were depicted as a wild tribe, a description that is reflected in their actions. They are believed to have destroyed the ancient city of Salona around 625 AD. This act was a significant event that marked the early history of the region.

Differences in Language and Culture

One of the most notable aspects of the early history of White Croatia and White Serbia is the lack of widespread interaction between these regions. It seems that for many centuries, they maintained a relatively separate existence. The only significant interaction appears to be in the deep south of Croatia, which was influenced by Serbian dukedoms for a brief period. However, this influence was short-lived and did not significantly impact the overall dynamics of the region.

The isolation of these regions can be attributed to a variety of factors, including geographic barriers, political differences, and the challenges of communication in an era where written records were limited. This isolation contributed to the development of distinct cultural and linguistic identities over time.

Religious and Political Divides

The early history of White Croatia and White Serbia also highlights significant religious and political divisions. Following the acceptance of Christianity in 1054, Croatians and Serbs found themselves not only linguistically but also religiously divided. These divisions were further exacerbated by the influence of different political centers of power. The Byzantine Empire and later the Kingdom of Croatia influenced the northern regions, while the Christian state of Serbia took hold in the south.

These differences contributed to a complex and dynamic cultural landscape, with each region developing its own unique identity and heritage over time. The events of this period laid the foundation for the cultural and political landscape that exists in these regions today.