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Since the early 20th century, Montenegrin politics has been shaped by an enduring tension between two competing perspectives: whether Montenegrins constitute a separate nation or are part of the Serbian nation, and whether they wish to live in a separate state. This study explores the various dimensions through which Montenegrins may evolve into an independent nation. Montenegro presents a unique case in which neither language nor religion serves as a definitive marker of national distinction, as both are largely shared with the Serbs. Instead, geographical factors, such as the region’s isolation from majority of Serbian population and its historically tribal social structure, itself influenced by the terrain are frequently cited as contributing to the emergence of national consciousness. In this context, national identity is deeply intertwined with the physical landscape. Significant regional disparities exist in the degree of identification with the Montenegrin nation. These variations are reflected in linguistic and ethnic data from national censuses, as well as in the outcomes of the independence referendum and subsequent elections. While the Montenegrin elite at the turn of the 20th century largely affirmed their affiliation with Serbia, a segment remained committed to the idea of Montenegrin independence; an aspiration rooted in medieval and early modern precedents. In my view, the most decisive factor in the formation of Montenegrin national consciousness is the independent statehood itself.