Albanian–Ottoman Wars (1432–1479)

The Albanian–Ottoman Wars were a series of conflicts between Albanians and the Ottoman Empire from 1432 to 1479. They began in 1432 with a revolt against Ottoman rule in Albania, sparked by discontent over changes in land ownership and governance. The League of Lezhë, led by Skanderbeg, was formed in 1444, uniting several Albanian principalities under a common banner to resist Ottoman expansion.

Skanderbeg, a former Ottoman military commander who defected to the Albanian cause, became the central figure in the resistance. His tactical brilliance and leadership allowed the Albanians to achieve numerous victories against larger Ottoman armies. Key battles include the Battle of Torvioll (1444), the Siege of Krujë (1450, 1466-1467, 1467), and the Battle of Oranik (1456).

The wars were characterized by guerilla warfare and the strategic use of mountainous terrain by the Albanian forces. Ottoman sultans Murad II and Mehmed II personally led campaigns against Albania in an attempt to subdue the region. Despite facing significant odds, Skanderbeg and his forces managed to maintain a degree of autonomy for Albania for over two decades.

After Skanderbeg's death in 1468, the League of Lezhë began to disintegrate. Without his leadership, the Albanian resistance weakened. The Ottomans eventually captured Krujë, the main Albanian stronghold, in 1478 after a prolonged siege. By 1479, most of Albania came under Ottoman control.

The Albanian–Ottoman Wars had a significant impact on the region. They delayed Ottoman expansion into Europe and shaped the cultural and political landscape of Albania for centuries to come. The resistance led by Skanderbeg became a symbol of Albanian national identity and a source of inspiration for future generations. Many Albanians fled to Southern Italy at the end of the wars, creating the Arbëreshë communities who still maintain their unique language and culture.