Slovaks

*Population estimates for 1994

The Slovaks (self-designation “slovatsy”) are the main population of Slovakia and they belong to the Alpine group of Central European race. Most of the believers are Catholics, however, Protestants (Lutherans) and Greek Catholics (members of Uniate Church) are also found. The national culture does contain regional differences between the groups of Slovaks. The differences between the flat country farmers’ culture and the mountainous region cattlemen’s culture is very obvious.

The traditional Slovak occupations in the low lying lands are farming, viticulture, and grain farming. In the mountainous areas there are plenty of pastures perfect for cattle-raising. The traditional handicrafts of these people are the making of leather goods and wooden utensils, as well as embroidering, knitting, and handlace plaiting.

The traditional clothing of the Slovaks is extremely extensive; there are approximately sixty different variations. The most popular of the women’s dress consists of a long linen gown with straps gathered on the collar, with front and back aprons. The men’s outfit consisted of trousers, a tunic-like shirt, and a fur and felt vest or jacket. The singles of the groups wore feathers and long ribbons on their hats. The inseparable part of a mountain man’s dress was a very wide leather belt with brass buckles.

Until recently, the family had a patriarchal feature. Intricate paternal or fraternal families existed as well until the middle of the twentieth century. The traditional neighboring help still exists to this day. The most important and pompous part of the family ceremonies is the wedding.

Legends and fairy-tales are a considerable part of the folklore. Vocal instrumental music is very popular, too.