Montenegro’s mountainous geography, Orthodox ethos, unique military strategies, and leadership allowed it to resist Ottoman conquest longer than most Balkan regions, preserving its autonomy amidst constant external pressures. This history of resistance fostered a deep-seated national consciousness, reinforced through cultural memory and traditions, which later inspired Montenegro’s independence movement in the 20th and 21st centuries. This paper examines how the small Adriatic nation of Montenegro’s historical and modern identity has been shaped by conflict with the Ottomans, focusing on how centuries of defiance against imperial domination shaped the nation’s political and cultural character. Drawing from firsthand accounts, historical analyses, and modern political developments, this paper analyzes the role of historical recollection in shaping Montenegrin nationalism. Special attention is given to the pivotal battles and strategies employed against the Ottoman Empire, the cultural resilience that ensured the survival of Montenegrin traditions, and how these legacies were invoked during the 2006 independence referendum. By exploring the relationship between historical resistance against the Ottomans and modern statehood, this paper highlights how Montenegro’s past continues to influence its national identity and political trajectory. Ultimately, it provides insight into how small nations can preserve their sovereignty and cultural heritage through resilience and unity. Understanding the historical context of Ottoman expansion is essential to appreciate Montenegro’s position in the Balkans.