In the sixteenth century Montenegro develops a form of unique autonomy within the Ottoman Empire with Montenegrin clans being free from certain restrictions.

Nevertheless, the Montenegrins refuse to accept Ottoman rule and in the seveneteenth century raise numerous rebellions, culminating with the defeat of the Ottomans in the Great Turkish War at the end of that century.Montenegro becomes a theocracy led by the Metropolitans, flourishing since the Petrović-Njegoš become the traditional prince-bishops (whose title is "Vladika of Montenegro").

The Venetian Republic introduces governors that meddle in Montenegrin politics; when the republic is succeeded by the Austrian Empire in 1797, the governors are abolished by Prince-Bishop Petar II in 1832.

His predecessor Petar I contributea to the unification of Montenegro with the Highlands.