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Empires, tribal leaders, Communists, religious conflict and any number of wars: these have been the realities of life in Northern Albania for centuries. In this rich and comprehensive history, T.J. Winnifrith examines the many different elements that have shaped this independent and little-known region of the Balkans. There has always been a fundamental division between the South of Albania and its mysterious, romantic North - more feudal, more tribal, more Catholic and more prone to Austrian and Italian influence; less affected by Greece, both ancient and modern, medieval Byzantium or the Orthodox faith. Northern Albania also has a more savage climate and landscape than the south of the country and its inhabitants have traditionally had little respect for law and authority while remaining greatly in thrall to an ancient honour code - the kanun - demanding blood feuds and terrible revenge. "Tribes and Brigands in the Balkans" traces the history of this ruggedly beautiful region, frequently disturbed by both invaders and internal strife yet retaining a distinct national identity and character. From its origins in the ancient kingdom of Illyria and the Roman province of Illyricum, through Byzantine and Ottoman rule, the granting of Albanian independence in 1912, the rise and fall of Communism to its current fragile democracy, Northern Albania can be seen as a cultural crossroads - especially remarkable given its mountainous and difficult landscape. "Tribes and Brigands in the Balkans" is the first modern comprehensive history of Northern Albania and is a brilliantly accessible introduction to a remote and inaccessible region.