Stefan I Crnojević
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Stefan I Crnojević was the Montenegrin ruler of the principality of Zeta (in the region of modern Montenegro) between 1435 and 1465. Under him, Zeta comprised Lovćen area around Cetinje, Rijeka Crnojevića, the valley of the Zeta River and the tribes of Bjelopavlići, Pješivći, Malonsići, Piperi, Hoti, Klimenti (Kelmendi) among others.
Taking advantage of the weak position of the Serbian ruler George Branković, Stefan Crnojević conquered parts of Branković's territory. He lost territory to Stjepan Vukčić Kosača of Herzegovina, however, who also took Stefan's son Ivan as a hostage. In 1455 he made an agreement with the Republic of Venice recognising its suzerainty in return for Venetian military assistance.
Stefan was married to Mara Kastrioti, a sister of Skanderbeg.
