Why Some Still Argue Ancient Macedonia Was Not in Greece but in Modern-Day FYROM/Macedonia

Recently, there has been a debate surrounding the historical notion that ancient Macedonia was located in what is now known as the Republic of North Macedonia (FYROM). Many scholars and historians refute this claim, attributing it to misinformation and cultural biases. This article aims to explore the true historical evidence and gaze into the cultural and linguistic foundations of ancient and modern Macedonia.

The Historical Perspective on Ancient Macedonia

The argument that ancient Macedonia was not in modern Greece but in FYROM is often advocated by a fringe group that pushes a specific narrative. Advocates of this argument frequently dismiss such claims as ignorance or brainwashing, stating that such views stem from a lack of proper historical knowledge.

It is important to note that ancient Macedonia's name had Greek origins. The ancient Greeks referred to it as Makedon, meaning "long plain," as directly indicated by early Greek texts. This term suggests a geographical reference rather than a specific territorial claim on contemporary borders.

The Linguistic and Cultural Evidence

In the ancient world, as in the modern, language evolved over time. The form of Greek spoken in ancient times is referred to as Ancient Greek. Similarly, modern Macedonian, like modern English, evolved from its older form. Ancient Greeks spoke a form of Latin Greek, just as the English language has evolved from Old English.

It is a misconception that ancient Macedonia was not inhabited by Greeks. Historical records, particularly those by Herodotus and Strabo, clearly indicate that the region was under Greek influence for centuries. Strabo, a Greek geographer, records that Alexander the Great came from the ancient city of Pella, now referred to in modern Albanian as Petrela, which is situated in what is now North Macedonia.

Modern-Day Context

Presently, the area now referred to as FYROM has a population primarily composed of Slavic people who settled in the region approximately one thousand years after the death of Alexander the Great. These settlers did not carry the legacy of ancient Macedonians; they speak a different language and have different cultural and historical roots.

Peonia, a region mentioned in ancient texts, once inhabited by Illyrian and Thracian tribes, saw a significant shift in its demography after the First Balkan War when many Greeks were forced to leave the region. Following the Second Balkan War, the area was annexed by Bulgaria and Serbia, eventually forming part of Yugoslavia, from which modern-day FYROM emerged.

Conclusion

The argument that ancient Macedonia was in FYROM is largely based on modern political and cultural framing rather than historical evidence. Ancient sources consistently indicate that the region was part of Macedonia, with strong Greek ties. Anyone claiming otherwise disregards historical records and cultural evidence.

The integrity of border regions is crucial for stability, and international recognition of territories is vital for peaceful coexistence. Understanding and accepting the historical and cultural heritage of ancient Macedonia as part of modern Greece is essential for fostering goodwill and avoiding division.