Albanian History and Geography

Albanian Origins and History

• Albania's name derives from the Illyrian tribe Albanoi, inhabiting the territory from 1225 BC to AD 200.
• Albanians call their country Shqipëri, meaning "Land of the Eagle."
• The Ottoman Empire controlled Albania for nearly 500 years.
• Skanderbeg, a national hero, led Albanian resistance against the Ottomans in the 1400s, fighting in at least 25 battles.
• Ottoman rule lasted 445 years, after Skanderbeg's death in 1468.
• A majority of Albanians converted to Islam during Ottoman rule.
• Albania gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912.
• Post-World War I, Albania's borders were officially established by the Paris Peace Conference in 1919.

Geographic and Demographic Characteristics

• Two major Albanian ethnic groups exist: Ghegs and Tosks.
• The Ghegs inhabit the north, and the Tosks the south.
• Language variations distinguish Ghegs from Tosks.
• Albania's size is comparable to the state of Maryland.
• Dimensions: 230 miles long, and 90 miles wide at its widest point.
• Western border: Adriatic Sea, approx. 50 miles from Italy's "boot".
• Albania is surrounded by itself geographically, as it borders only with Balkan countries forming a peninsula surrounded by the Adriatic, Aegean, and Black Seas.
• Population: Approximated at 3.5 million in the late 1990s, projected to be 3.6 million by 2000.
• Rural population decreased—from about 80% living on farms in 1950 to around 60% by the mid-1990s.

Language and Culture

• Albanian (Shqip) is one of Europe's oldest languages, belonging to the Indo-European family.
• Albanian has seven vowel sounds.
• The Albanian alphabet includes the English alphabet, plus the letter ç (representing the "ch" sound).
• Ghegs and Tosks use different pronunciations of Albanian.
• Albanian mythology includes figures like fairies, snakes, dragons, witches, and guard-like flame-throwing winged beings.
• Albanian mythology includes the kucedër, (a multi-headed snake/dragon-like creature),shtrigë or shpriga (witch), and the stuhi (a flame-throwing winged being that guards treasures).
• Albanian folklore also features the mythical female figures called Zana.
• Albanians have a strong emphasis on gestures (hand movements, shrugs, eye movements) in their communication.
• "Besa" is a sacred pledged word or promise.
• Albanian greeting customs are unique, and involve refreshments (liko and drinks) and inquiries about host and guest family members.
• Smoking is permitted almost everywhere, with no regulations against.
• Albanians are typically modest and do not wear revealing clothing.

Religious and Social Customs

• Albania has no official state religion.
• The communist government, in power 1946-92, outlawed religion in 1967.
• Freedom of religion was restored in 1989-90.
• Islam is the most prevalent religion (>70% of the population), with five pillars: prayer, alms giving, Ramadan fasting, pilgrimage, and reciting the Shahada.
• Christians (Evangelical, Eastern Orthodox, and Roman Catholic) comprise around 20% of the population.
• Albanians celebrate Dita e Verës (Spring Day) in mid-March.
• Albanian independence day is commemorated on November 28th.
• Wakes for the deceased are held at home for two to three days before burial.
• Traditional Albanian homes often have elderly parents living with their children, where they receive honor and respect.

Family and Gender Roles

• Albanian families are generally small, with an average of two children.
• The wife is considered the primary person responsible for household tasks—the husband does not typically do housework.
• The oldest son is traditionally trained as head of household upon the father's death.

Economy and Education

• Albanians have adopted a five-day work week since 1992.
• Women comprise more than 40% of the labor force.
• Literacy rate is high (88%) in Albania, amongst the highest in the Balkan region.
• Mandatory school attendance is from age seven through fifteen.
• Teaching in Albanian was only allowed after 1887, teaching had previously been conducted in Turkish and Persian.

Cultural Expressions and Entertainment

• Albanian cuisine is influenced by Ottoman rule.
• Common meats include lamb, while foods such as Lakror and Fergesë are common dishes.
• Bread is considered a major part of any meal.
• Raki is a popular brandy.
• Albanians enjoy music and classical music performances in the country.
• Folk instruments include the civility, gërnetë, gajda, bishnica, sharkia, and lahuta.
• Albanian art includes qëndisje (embroidery), weaving rugs, lace-making, and metalworking.
• Ismail Kadare is a renowned Albanian writer.
• Albanians enjoy storytelling in coffee shops.
• Television programs from Italy are popular.

Politics (post-communist era)

• Albania transitioned to democracy under President Sali Berisha, but accusations exist about dictatorial methods continuing.
• Allegations involve silencing political dissent, press restrictions, and election rigging.

Additional Notes:

• A fustanella is an Albanian kilt that was traditionally worn by men in the country before the 1400s.
• The traditional costume of southern Albanian women includes gold necklaces, aprons, and embroidered vests.

Explore the rich origins and history of Albania, including its name derived from the Illyrian tribe Albanoi and the significant impacts of Ottoman rule. Learn about the unique characteristics of the two main Albanian ethnic groups, Ghegs and Tosks, and the geographical aspects of the country.