Albania Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Five Unexpected Facts

Beginning in the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire invaded and ruled over a multitude of regions formerly governed by indigenous kingdoms as it expanded into South-Eastern Europe.

Albania Independence Day 2023: The 28th of November is observed annually as Albania Independence Day in North Macedonia, Kosovo, and the Albanian diaspora. It commemorates two significant events: the adoption of the Albanian Declaration of Independence from the Ottoman Empire by Ismail Qemali on November 28, 1912, and the hoisting of the Albanian flag in Vlora on the same day that Skanderbeg did so in Krujë on November 28, 1443. November 29 is Liberation Day, which follows Albania Independence Day annually, thus today marks the beginning of a two-day holiday period.

Albania Independence Day: History

Beginning in the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire invaded and ruled over a multitude of regions formerly governed by indigenous kingdoms as it expanded into South-Eastern Europe. They ruled the majority of modern-day Albania by 1431. A Skanderbeg, an Ottoman deserter, spearheaded a regional uprising in 1443. As a consequence of his valiant military campaigns in defense of Albania against the Ottoman Empire, he was elevated to the status of Albanian national hero. His opposition to the Ottoman Empire may have potentially thwarted its efforts to extend its dominion into additional western regions of Europe.

Albania reverted to Ottoman rule in 1479, following Skanderbeg’s demise on January 17, 1468; it remained a province of the Ottoman Empire until shortly before the outbreak of the First World War. Eastern Europe was experiencing a surge in nationalism-related sentiments by the late 19th century. In spite of Albania’s privileged position within the Ottoman Empire, it became involved in numerous rebellions against it. Ismail Qemali, the leader of the Albanian national movement, announced independence on November 28, 1912, after the Ottoman Empire fell in the Balkan Wars.

A delegation from Albania presented a memorandum to the London Conference of 1913 in December 1912. The memorandum emphasized the importance of safeguarding the ethnic rights of Albanians and called for international recognition of an independent Albania comprised of western Macedonia, including Skopje and Bitola, western Macedonia, and the entirety of Epirus up to Arta. The ambassadors of all six Great Powers denied the proposal for an independent Albania at the outset of the London conference in December 1912.

As a result, the treaty was executed, which partitioned a significant portion of the contested territories among Serbia, Greece, and Montenegro. They reconvened on July 29, 1913, and reached a consensus to establish the Principality of Albania as a constitutional monarchy. The newly independent state was ultimately constituted in August 1913 with the signing of the Treaty of Bucharest, which resulted in the expulsion of approximately 40% of the ethnic Albanian population.

HOW TO CELEBRATE THE INDEPENDENCE DAY OF ALBANIA

Observe the motorcade.

A municipal parade is something to behold, regardless of location—in Tirana or Chicago, Illinois, to name an example. Join in the excitement and gain a great deal of knowledge. Organise a gathering with companions to discuss the Albanian independence.

Attend a concert.

There are concerts in the heart of Tirana featuring renowned Albanian dancers and vocalists. Participate in the festivities and gain cultural insight!

Continue your study of Albanian history.

A brief overview of the Principality of Albania’s establishment has been provided thus far; however, there is more to the tale. We recommend doing some research on the origins of modern-day Albania and its lengthy, eventful history.

Five Unexpected Facts about Albania

Religion was prohibited in 1967.

Enver Hoxha declared Albania the first atheist nation in history, and anyone who practiced a different religion received a prison sentence of three to ten years.

There are only three million inhabitants.

At present, there are more Albanians residing abroad than on its territories.

The majority of Albanians follow Islam.

Although the country was first exposed to Islam in the 14th century, widespread adherence to the faith did not occur until the 17th century.

Their lake is among the earliest in Europe.

The lake, known as Ohrid, is home to numerous rare plant and animal species, in addition to living fossils.

It is the largest producer of hydroelectricity in the globe.

Albania is the global producer of 90% of hydroelectricity.