A concise history of Albania

Coauthored by Fischer (Purdue Univ., Fort Wayne) and Schmitt (Univ. of Vienna, Austria), two reputable scholars who are the authors or editors of numerous works on Albania and the Balkans, this volume covers the historical development of Albania and its people from its ancient past to the present, highlighting major events discussed within their sociopolitical, economic, and cultural contexts. The medieval migrations, the Ottoman rule, the creation of the Albanian state and nation, the interwar authoritarianism, the establishment of the communist regime, and the Stalinist dictatorship culminated in the demise of the totalitarian regime and the struggle to establish an emerging democracy. The book's nine chapters are illustrated with black-and-white archival photos and maps that help readers follow the narrative. A detailed list of political systems and the principal political players since the country's independence in 1912 through 2013 enhances the text. A list of further readings directs those interested in expanding their understanding of Albanian issues to supplementary works available in non-Balkan languages. The index provides quick access to topics under consideration. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers through faculty. --Hermina G.B. Anghelescu, Wayne State University